Wish comes true for Chino Valley teenager
The Arizona Highway Patrol Association, whose members include both sworn officers and civilian employees of the DPS, adopted and funded Evan's wish. In 1980 the DPS granted the wish of the first child, 7-year-old Chris Greicius, to be funded through Make-A-Wish.
Passing of former AHPA lobbyist Ed Wren
Former AHPA lobbyist, Edward James Wren, passed away, surrounded by those he loved, on July 31, 2010. He was 68. Born in Syracuse, NY, to Edwin Francis and Helen Beatrice Wren, Ed grew up in NY and Florida. He graduated from Florida State University in 1964.
Please keep in your thoughts our Fallen Chandler Officers; Ledesma #600 EOW: 7/28/10
"Our thoughts go out to the all the injured Chandler officers and their families, who have suffered from a stressful and traumatic experience," states Jimmy Chavez, President of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association. "We particularly are sending out condolences to the Ledesma family and our brothers and sisters in the Chandler Police Department."
Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett Budget Presentation
Arizona Secretary of State, Ken Bennett, attending AHPA’s annual meeting in Prescott last month and presented a clear way to understand the state’s budget. The “Tissue Box” demonstration (as it has been coined) was found to be particularly helpful to those that were at the meeting. Mr. Bennett has allowed it to be shared with the rest of our members. Please click on the below video links to view his presentation.
Legal Defense Fund (LDF) Expert on Discovery Channel
Force Science, a resource used by the Legal Defense Fund that covers you, was featured on the Discovery Channel. Dr. Bill Lewenski and his scien- tists reenacted common scenarios officers are faced involving weapons. The reenactment shows an assailant on the ground firing a gun from underneath their body. Force Science uses the study to analyze time and best law enforcement practices on how to respond to these scenarios. Results are shared amongst our profession in order to better train and educate officers - making everyone safer.
Memorial Day Weekend Travelers – Be Safe
As many travelers gear up for Memorial Day weekend, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association reminds the public to be careful. Americans have a choice when traveling, and the AHPA urges them to protect themselves if they do choose to travel anywhere in or outside of the United States. Here are some security tips for Arizonans when traveling anywhere outside the country:
May 2010 Meeting Minutes
The April 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by Executive Vice President Bob Gilbert at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona. Vice President Gilbert began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
AHPA Officer Cooks Up His Favorite Meal for Sonoran Living
Sgt. Bill Rogers' 20-year DPS career has taken him all over the state. Arizona Highway Patrol officers patrol 6,000 miles of our state. Throughout his travels he has had the opportunity to get a taste of all the regional flavors Arizona has to offer. This is one of his favorite recipes, which he says is an extremely easy meal to fix, making it great for a working person.
Highway Patrol Thanks Voters for Voting Yes on Prop 100
In times when the economy has hit many families negatively, voters showed Arizona that public safety is a priority. The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) thanks voters who supported Proposition 100. The temporary sales tax will allow Department of Public Safety (DPS) to operate at its current levels.
AHPA in Final Push for Yes on 100!
Voters go to the polls today (May 18th) to decide the fate of many state agencies. AHPA continues to be on the forefront in educating the public on why it is so important to vote Yes on 100. Voting yes saves hundreds of DPS jobs, and keeps us at our current service levels. View and read below what AHPA is doing to help inform Arizona voters.
Legislative Report for AHPA - April 19th, 2010
Take a moment to view this extensive report on legislative news important to AHPA members. This report has been compiled by R&R Partners on behalf of AHPA.
DPS, AHPA and FOP Hold Press Conference About Prop 100
AHPA President Jimmy Chavez and FOP President John Ortelano joined Director Halliday to speak about what could happen if Prop 100 does not go through. Director Halliday expressed that if Prop 100 does not pass, the agency will not be the same, and could lose up to 100 officers and many civilians. AHPA President Chavez spoke in support of Prop 100 while explaining what the budget cuts in prior years has already done to the agency. He added that if the proposition fails, DPS would not only lay-off many valuable employees but would also be fighting 2010 crimes with 2004 resources. View below some of the coverage on this event.
Vote Yes on 100! Find Out How to Get the Word Out!
There's only one way to protect Arizona's students, our neighborhoods and the safety net we need. Vote YES ON 100. Arizona needs your help on May 18th!
AHPA Honors 28 DPS Officers Killed in Line of Duty with Memorial Ceremony
The men and women of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) will paid their respects to the 28 Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers who have been killed in the line of duty. The Annual AHPA Police Officer Memorial Ceremony is took place Monday, May 3rd at 9 A.M.
Budget Update From President Chavez
This e-Blast is to answer some of the questions regarding the position of AHPA on the budget-imposed furloughs. After the passage of the budget during the 7th Legislative Special Session, I met with Director Halliday to inform him of the official position of AHPA regarding the furloughs.
Lt. Eric Shuhandler Act Now Law, Protecting Police Officers from Felons
Many officers feel that the tragic death of Lt. Shuhandler could have been prevented if Christopher Redondo of Globe, Arizona would have been behind bars after assaulting a Department of Public Safety (DPS) police officer. The Lt. Eric Shuhandler Act, H.B. 2062, was signed into law by Governor Janice Brewer, that changes aggravated assault on a peace officer felony classification from a class six felony to a class five felony for aggravated assault of an officer and changes from a class five felony to a class four felony aggravated assault that results in physical injury to the officer.
Aviation Cuts to DPS
Northern Arizona will have air units removed from Flagstaff and Kingman. Flagstaff Mayor Sara Presler spoke with the media on the state’s budget cuts they are seeing in Northern Arizona, including less DPS air units responding to emergencies. AHPA urges members and the community to vote for Prop 100. We do not want to see other DPS resources removed, or layoffs, due to our budget deficit.
DPS furloughs
On the morning of March 25, Kelsey Lundy and I met with Brian McNeil of the Governor’s Office. The purpose of the meeting was to get more insight and understanding of the process by which furloughs would be implemented or exempted based on the recently passed budget for FY2011 and FY2012, which was signed by the Governor on March 18. As explained earlier, those budgets included the permanent elimination of the state employee performance pay as well as implementing 6 furlough days in each of those two fiscal years.
March 2010 Meeting Minutes
The March 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona. President Chavez began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Spring Breakers Beware – Be Safe Traveling to Mexico
As many college students gear up for the spring break holiday next week, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association reminds our young adults to be careful when traveling to Mexico. Increased violence in Mexico has caused concern for law enforcement, and they are reminding students about safety when traveling.
AHPA Talks With Public About Prescription Drugs Usage
Sgt. Bill Rogers from the Arizona Highway Patrol Association speaks to the public on prescription drug usage and how law enforcement is dealing with its escalated use.
Tells Us Why You Want to Protect Education and Public Safety
Since the Yes on 100 campaign to protect education and public safety launched a few weeks ago, tens of thousands of Arizonans have signed up to support our efforts. They know that Proposition 100 is a responsible solution for Arizona at this time.
February 2010 - Meeting Minutes
The February 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona. President Chavez began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
February 2010 meeting minutes
14th Annual Officer Bob Martin Mile Clean-Up
The family and friends of Officer Robert K. Martin, a DPS officer who was shot to death during a traffic stop on August 15, 1995, get together yearly to remember him and his service. The Beeline Highway, where a memorial for Officer Martin remains, is kept beautiful in his honor.
Law Enforcement Officer Fatalities Up 31% - Officers Continue to Protect and Serve
Arizona – The month of January 2010 was one of the deadliest months for police across the nation. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), law enforcement deaths are up 31% over last January 2009 nationwide. However, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) reminds the public that officers remain committed to their duties, and will continue to serve their public.
Highway Patrol Supports Temporary Sales Tax to Assist Funding to Public Safety
Arizona is experiencing unprecedented budget issues, and the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) is supportive of measures that would encourage revenue to assist public safety. In light of recent police tragedies and department cuts, the AHPA is supportive of Governor Brewer's proposal for a temporary sales tax to continue funding support to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
AHPA reminds drivers about staying safe in rainy weather
spoke with Fox viewers about driving in dangerous weather. On January 21st, Governor Jan Brewers declared a state of emergency for the State of Arizona. Though the public still has get around, AHPA was able to provide tips to folks that need to drive. View the video below to hear some of these safety points and the effects of what happens during a roll over accident if you do not have your seatbelt on.
Governor Proposes 5% Pay Cut for All State Employees - No DPS Lay-Offs
Governor Jan Brewer announced her plan last Friday to help resolve the current Arizona budget deficit. The plan includes a 5% pay reduction for all state employees for 2010 and 2011, along with service cuts for state departments. The proposal did not include further operating cuts to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Highway Patrol Officers and Civilians Welcome New Director
The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) welcomes the announcement of their new Department of Public Safety (DPS) director, Robert C. Halliday.
Click it or Ticket
Many Arizona law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Public Safety, have received grant money to specifically enforce seatbelt safety. The "Click it or Ticket" laws have many parameters that any driver or passenger should know about. The Arizona Highway Patrol Association is providing seatbelt safety tips to the public that goes beyond the simple clicking noise of your seatbelt.
AHPA’s Safety Tips for the Holidays
The Arizona Highway Patrol Association helped equip the public with safety tips for this holidays season. Read and view what officers did below by to helping citizens understand DUI laws and safe driving tips to keep our Arizona community safe.
High-Speed Chases Serve as a Reminder of Officer-Involved Critical Incidents
Text: The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) released preliminary statistics today about law enforcement related deaths as Arizona Department of Public Safety officers were involved in a high speed chase with a suspect on I-17 through Phoenix and then up to the high country. The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) members know far too well the losses and injuries that have been sustained to Department of Public Safety employees throughout the year.
Funeral Services for Officer Marano
Officer Chris Marano, 28, was struck on Loop 101 near Seventh Avenue. He was on the freeway to lay down a spike strip to help end a police chase.
December 2009 Meeting Minutes
Christmas Bear Program 2009
Once again the AHPA sponsored Christmas Bear Program is going strong as coordinators and volunteers are stepping up to bring a Happy Christmas to children around the state. We have received confirmation from the coordinators listed below and encourage any volunteers to contact them directly if you want to help out.
Marijuana Legalization
Recent polls show that public support for legalizing marijuana has gone up. Since 2000, 69% of the general public are supportive of the usage of marijuana. AHPA was asked to sit down with KTVK and discuss the issues with legalizing this drug.
September 2009 Meeting Minutes
The September 2009 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona. President Chavez began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Sign Online to Boycott Violent Game
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) is mounting a vigorous campaign to discourage parents and caregivers from purchasing or allowing children access to the 25-to-Life video game. Almost 50,000 of you have added their names to the list of petition supporters against the 25-to-Life video game.
Latest DPS Budget Update From Your AHPA President
On Thursday at 4:00 p.m., I attended a briefing in the Director’s conference room regarding the 15% budget cut exercise. I was given a paper outlining the line-items cuts that amount to the 15%. The figures were staggering to say the least.
In depth: DPS budget crisis
(State of Arizona) The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) thanked Arizona Governor, Jan Brewer, today for signing into law H2010. This bill finalizes the budget for Department of Public Safety (DPS) and allows them to provide law enforcement services without interruption.
AHPA Meets with Senator McCain
On 27 Aug 2009, AHPA President Jimmy Chavez, Vice President Bob Gilbert and Executive Officer Pat Eagan met with Senator John McCain at his Phoenix office. The meeting had been requested by Senator McCain to discuss several issues and to ask for AHPA's endorsement for his Senate Campaign. During the meeting several topics were discussed such as Legal Immigration/Migrant Workers, Illegal Immigration, and Inter-Agency Radio Operability.
50% less Highway Patrol officers on Arizona roads
Police “Comfort Bear” toy drive
Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) leads off their yearly "Comfort Bear” toy drive June 25th through July 26th to help console kids impacted by tragedy. AHPA is urging those willing to help by donating any stuffed animal, as the level is significantly lower from years past.
July 2009 Meeting Minutes
Photo Radar Exemption
The AHPA, in partnership with the APA, successfully introduced legislation exempting on duty first responders from photo enforcement action or measures. As a result, ARS 28-1202 will take effect September 30, 2009. This is another example of the AHPA, through the strength and support of its membership, striving to improve the working conditions for DPS employees doing their job. Additionaly, the AHPA President has met with Director Vanderpool and Deputy Director Gillette-Stroud in an effort to promote necessary changes to the agency's current photo enforcement policy relating to the new legislation.
The Pinky Ring Gives it Away
The Top Ten Signs The Suspect Is Connected To Organized Crime
June 2009 Meeting Minutes
AG's Memo to LE on Zylon Vests
Ag's Memo to LE on Zylon Vests
Pay Parity in Now Law
Pay Parity is Now Law
These Bills Have Been Introduced
The following bills have been introduced and are identified as priority legislation for the AHPA. Please note that efforts involving the budget are ongoing through the course of the session. Also, we are working with ASRS and Representative Marian McClure on developing the legislation creating a DROP program for ASRS, but it has not yet been introduced to receive a bill number.
May 6th Legislative Alert
Yesterday in the House Appropriations Committee, House Bill 2636 received a Do Pass recommendation. This budget bill is a concern to us because of the language contained in Section 11 of the bill. That language would cause an increase to the employee contribution for members of PSPRS and CORP
July 2008 - Meeting Minutes
December 2005 - Meeting Minutes
December 2005 - Meeting Minutres
Reliance Armor Systems Closes Doors
Take a moment to read this letter from Reliance Armor Systems explaining their reasons for going out of business. The letter also provides contact information in case you need it.
Posted Calendars and Committee Hearings
February 2006 - Meeting Minutes
Dues Reduction
With the ever increasing cost of living, the current state of our economy and the lack of any kind of substantial pay increase, your AHPA Board of Directors realizes it is becoming more and more difficult for you to make ends meet. In the true AHPA spirit of representing and supporting our members we are constantly looking for different ideas; looking for ways to better serve and represent you.
APA Saves DROP
Early in this year's legislative session I was quite shocked to get a telephone call from a former colleague at the Phoenix Police Department who said, "You"ve got to stop the FOP from getting rid of DROP!”
Caring for the Old Dawgs
Recently, I attended a management seminar on the inclusion of Generation X and Y in our departments. One chief brought up an issue that struck home with many of us older folk. His point was we are constantly trying to find ways to include these groups in our departments, but what are we doing for our older officers?
APA Recognizes AZ Senators
On June 28, 2006, the Arizona Police Association honored Arizona State Senator Thayer Verschoor and Arizona State Representative Eddie Farnsworth with the 2006 Legislative Hero Awards
Moral Body Armor
It's easy, in retrospect, to talk about some of the tough ethical choices I made during my career. And I know I have minimized a lot of the bad choices I made in favor of a more acceptable memory; so be it.
Another Career Saved
Early in 2005, a Phoenix police officer was terminated for alleged untruthful statements during an official investigation.
Reduced Discipline
Attorney Jan Feltz with the Law Offices of Michael Napier successfully reduced the discipline of an officer accused of inappropriately discussing an upcoming transfer examination.
Pension Victory
The Law Offices of Michael Napier have won another victory for public safety by reversing the ruling of the Guadalupe Public Safety Pension Board.
Civil Suite Defense
The Law Offices of Michael Napier defended an officer in a civil suit brought for an off-duty automobile transaction. Using his member benefit to a reduced hourly fee, the officer retained Mr. Napier’s office to defend against a $20,000 claim.
Reversal of Dismissal
Jan Feltz, an attorney in the Law Offices of Michael Napier, prevailed before the Arizona Law Enforcement Merit System Council and reversed the dismissal of a former Department of Public Safety laboratory employee.
LDF Victory
It was Billings, Montana on Christmas Eve 2004, when eight-year veteran of the police department, Officer Greg Jacobs, riding with a partner, was called to a home on a domestic disturbance call; they had been there before.
The Dead Man’s Hand
A pair of aces, and a pair of eights – four simple cards known simply as the Dead Man’s Hand. For years, the symbolic meaning of these cards has been misconstrued and demonized.
Priceless Humor
Man's Best Friend
POST Board Reconsiders Revocation
Attorneys from the Law Offices of Michael Napier were successful in obtaining reconsideration from the Peace Officers Standards and Training Board on a prior revocation of an officer’s certification.
July 2006 Meeting Minutes
Long Term Recruiting Solutions
A department has an authorized strength. Testing and hiring are generally handled by Personnel or Human Resources and to a smaller degree by the law enforcement agency. That means the cops have to work hand in hand with the HR folks.
Signs The Boss Is Over The Hill
Officer Defended in Accident
Janet Feltz, an attorney in the Law Offices of Michael Napier, recently represented a Maricopa County Sheriff’s deputy in a civil traffic matter before the San Tan Justice Court.
AHPA: A Clear Choice
Take a moment to compare what AHPA has to offer vs. FOP Lodge 32 and discover the clear choice! “AHPA was instrumental in fighting for a 'Meet and Confer' bill that included all DPS employees. Without AHPA's hard work, civilians would have been left out of the process.”- State Senator John Huppenthal
Take a moment to compare what AHPA has to offer vs. FOP Lodge 32 and discover the clear choice!
“AHPA was instrumental in fighting for a 'Meet and Confer' bill that included all DPS employees. Without AHPA's hard work, civilians would have been left out of the process.”- State Senator John Huppenthal
APA and AzCOPS Meet
For the second year in a row, the Arizona Police Association and the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs met to discuss and coordinate their legislative efforts. Collectively representing 14,000 rank-and-file law enforcement officers.
Trigger-Happy in Sin City?
While it"s true that cops often daydream about gunfights and other similarly exciting events, I don’t know any cop that has been in a shooting that wants to be in a second one. I speak from personal experience here.
A Good Lesson for Us All, and Chimps
Start with a cage containing five monkeys. Inside the cage, hang a banana on a string and place a set of stairs under it. Before long, a monkey will go to the stairs and start to climb towards the banana.
2006 Legislative Facts and Accomplishments
At the conclusion of the 2006 legislative session, not only had the AHPA obtained the majority of our early goals - but we also added to the list of accomplishments by reconciling new issues that arose late in the session when it otherwise might have seemed impossible to find legislative solutions.
Complaint Against FOP
AHPA files official complaint with Department over campaign practices by FOP. Click here for the full letter…
Mindset for Being a Supervisor
In order to develop a proper mindset for being a supervisor, no matter what the rank, I want you to observe the supervisors that you currently work for and how they handle various situations. Afterwards, get some quiet time and think about how you would have handled the situation if you were in charge.
Getting Older
Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we're kids? If you're less than 10 years old, you're so excited about aging that you think in fractions. How old are you?...."I'm four and a half" ....You're never 36 and a half....you're four and a half going on five!
Security Breach
It has recently come to our attention that there was a security breach involving your personal personnel data at the Department of Public Safety. The Department has conducted an investigation into two separate mailings of Meet and Confer related campaign materials by FOP Lodge 32. The materials were mailed directly to all employees' home addresses - which the Department considers confidential.
FOP False Endorsement Claim
FOP Logde 32 sent out a publication which stated they had been endorsed by AZNLPOA to represent DPS employees in the Meet & Confer process. It turns out, no such endorsement exists...
The AHPA values your privacy
The F.O.P. may not think it’s a big deal to steal the names and home addresses of all DPS employees, but we do. AHPA values your privacy and knows that as law enforcement professionals, your home address and personal information should be protected – from any unofficial use.
Defendant Who Shot DPS Officer Gets 39.5 Years
Daniel Novasad has been sentenced to nearly 40 years in prison for the 2007 shooting of DPS officer Kyle DeForest, County Attorney Andrew Thomas announced today.
The Emerging Trend of Criminal Complacency
"Go ahead, shoot me!" Over the last ten years, one would be hard pressed to find an officer that has not heard this emanating from a suspect that is taunting him or her, confident that the officer will not pull the trigger. Lately there has been some scrutiny in what appears to be a growing trend by officers not to use force, even when they are completely justified in doing so.
APA Endorses Jon Kyl
Senator Kyl has fought for funds that have assisted state and local agencies in their fights against sex crimes against children, methamphetamine, child pornography, and violent crimes. He has further assisted in acquiring funds for national sex offender registration and DNA testing technologies.
I Wish You Could
This is a poem dedicated to a very difficult job and the people who do it. Often those not involved in public safety don't fully understand the sacrifices given on their behalf each day.
Identity Theft Resolution Service
Every day, 19,000 people discover their identity has been stolen. You could be one of them.
May 2008 - Meeting Minutes
April 2007 Meeting Minutes
January 2007 Meeting Minutes
January 2006 - Meeting Minutes
Periodic Legislative Update - 11/01/2007
Past President Andy Swann addressed the Board on the 2007 Legislative session and an review on bills submitted by the Association.
March 2007 Meeting Minutes
February 2007 Meeting Minutes
Fuel Injected Humor
The Top Ten Signs The Pursuit Will Not Be Successful
June 2006 Meeting Minutes
May 2006 Meeting Minutes
April 2006 Meeting Minutes
October 2007 Meeting Minutes
Our Dispatchers - A Poem
"Our Dispatchers" is a poem by an unknown author dedicated to the hard work done by dispatchers and the invaluable part they play in law enforcement. AHPA wants our dispatchers to know that we also appreciate the hard work and dedication they put in everyday so we have reposted the poem here for all to see.
March 2006 - Meeting Minutes
Stress, Critical Incidents and Trauma
It's obvious that law enforcement is a stressful and demanding profession. Expected to be a jack of all trades, the cop handles myriad responsibilities, from assisting stranded motorists and checking the welfare of a homebound senior to enforcing traffic law, investigating homicides, quelling disturbances and arresting drug dealers. The typical shift is highly unpredictable and includes varying levels of excitement and boredom, as expressed in this axiom commonly attributed to police work: "Hours and days of utter boredom interspersed with a few mercifully brief moments of sheer terror."
Proper Techniques for Wtinessing a Confession
No investigator wants to have his testimony questioned because it is his word against the defendant's. It is precisely for this reason that the investigator needs to have a witness verify that the investigator"s testimony is accurate. While it sounds like a simple concept, there are important considerations and procedures to follow when having a confession witnessed.
Interrogation Procedures - Promises of Leniency
For a confession to be admissible as evidence it must not only be trustworthy, but also voluntary. The test of voluntariness answers the question, "was a statement made of the suspect's free will?” The concept of “free will” has a somewhat different meaning in law than it does in psychology. A psychologist would argue that if a person is able to make any behavioral choice he is operating from his own free will. Legally, however, the concept of free will relates to whether a statement was made in the absence of threats or other inducements. These “other inducements” generally refer to promises of leniency.
November 2007 Meeting Minutes
June 2007 Meeting Minutes
July 2007 Meeting Minutes
AHPA Supports Sgt. Tom Lovejoy
The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) firmly assert their support for Sgt. Tom Lovejoy, a Chandler police officer who is currently facing criminal charges in the accidental death of his service canine, Bandit.
August 2007 Meeting Minutes
A “Coined” Commemoration
The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) is commemorating its' long history as a partner with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in advancing the quality of life for DPS employees, serving our community, and in remembering our fallen DPS Officers. This commemoration is being done with the availability of two challenge coins.
December 2007 Meeting Minutes
January 2008 Meeting Minutes
Danny, We Hardly Knew Ye
By the time you read this, an important anniversary will have passed. December 9 was the 26th anniversary of the murder of Danny Faulkner by Mumia Abu-Jamal. Most Americans have probably heard the murderer's name, as in "Free Mumia!" However, there's a pretty good chance that many do not know the name of Jamal's victim, Philadelphia Police Officer Daniel Faulkner, Badge Number 4699. That is both a very real pity and an unfortunate sign of the times we live in, where bad guys are almost always more famous than their victims.
PSPRS Q&A 2008 Schedule
Here is the revised "Question and Answer Session" schedule for the First Quarter 2008. "Question and Answer Sessions" are designed for Police Officers and Fire Fighters who are thinking about retiring and have questions about our system (PSPRS), changes in the system, retiring, DROP, Reverse DROP and creating the right financial plan for themselves and their families.
Weekly Legislative Update
So, what has the State Legislature been up to? Here is a list of Bills currently being heard that are of AHPA interest.
Border Patrol Agent Nick Corbett
A jury has failed to convict Border Patrol Agent Nick Corbett on any of the three charges brought by Cochise County Attorney Ed Rheinheimer. Rheinheimer hired former Arizona AG Grant Woods to prosecute the agent, and Woods brought along his side kick Lee Rappelyea, past-president of the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police and Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 2.
February 2008 Meeting Minutes
March 2008 Meeting Mintues
April 2008 - Meeting Minutes
Meeting Minutes - April 2008
June 2008 - Meeting Minutes
2008 AHPA Raffle Winners!
2008 Arizona Highway Patrol Association Raffle winners from the 40th Annual John Walker Memorial Rodeo.
End of Legislative Session Report
The second regular session of the 48th Legislature adjourned sine die on June 27th, 2008. The Legislature approved 347 of the 1380 bills introduced. Legislation will become effective on the general effective date of September 26th, 2008- unless otherwise specified within the language of the bill.
August 2008 - Meeting Minutes
October 2008 Meeting Minutes
November 2008 Meeting Minutes
December 2008 Meeting Minutes
AHPA Urges Lawmakers to Protect DPS Funding
Arizona is facing a revenue shortage of $1.6 billion for the remainder of FY09. AHPA president Jimmy Chavez, in a recent plea to lawmakers pointed out that The dedicated men and women of DPS, the first line of defense for Arizona citizens, are already in need of more officers and resources.
AZ State Employee Pay and Economic Impact Report
In a world of increasing responsibilities for State employees and growing turnover due to retirement, competitive wages and compensation are imperative since they reduce voluntary turnover, increase morale and attract better workers.
January 2009 Meeting Minutes
February 2009 Meeting Minutes
Amendments to SB1028 and SB1035 05/20/09
Tomorrow at approximately 11:00 a.m., Senate Appropriation will convene to hear and vote on several budget bills for FY 2010. Of interest to us are the Amendments to SB1028 and SB1035. Within those budget bills is language that greatly affects our members.
March 2009 Meeting Minutes
April 2009 Meeting Minutes
May 2009 Meeting Minutes
Legislative Success!
Thanks to the efforts of Association members, the issues concerning employee retirement contribution rates in the Legislative budget have been removed. The emails and phone calls by members in addition to personal meetings by the AHPA President have helped convinced enough members to remove the provision that would have caused a decrease in take home pay for officers. We are continuing to work with lawmakers regarding the secondary employment overtime used for calculating retirement benefits and dispatchers moving into CORP. These are still very important issues that need your action. Stay tuned for more info as state budget negotiations continue.
October 2009 Meeting Minutes
The October 2009 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona.
The Arizona Highway Patrol Association, whose members include both sworn officers and civilian employees of the DPS, adopted and funded Evan's wish. In 1980 the DPS granted the wish of the first child, 7-year-old Chris Greicius, to be funded through Make-A-Wish.
Former AHPA lobbyist, Edward James Wren, passed away, surrounded by those he loved, on July 31, 2010. He was 68. Born in Syracuse, NY, to Edwin Francis and Helen Beatrice Wren, Ed grew up in NY and Florida. He graduated from Florida State University in 1964.
"Our thoughts go out to the all the injured Chandler officers and their families, who have suffered from a stressful and traumatic experience," states Jimmy Chavez, President of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association. "We particularly are sending out condolences to the Ledesma family and our brothers and sisters in the Chandler Police Department."
Force Science, a resource used by the Legal Defense Fund that covers you, was featured on the Discovery Channel. Dr. Bill Lewenski and his scien- tists reenacted common scenarios officers are faced involving weapons. The reenactment shows an assailant on the ground firing a gun from underneath their body. Force Science uses the study to analyze time and best law enforcement practices on how to respond to these scenarios. Results are shared amongst our profession in order to better train and educate officers - making everyone safer.
As many travelers gear up for Memorial Day weekend, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association reminds the public to be careful. Americans have a choice when traveling, and the AHPA urges them to protect themselves if they do choose to travel anywhere in or outside of the United States. Here are some security tips for Arizonans when traveling anywhere outside the country:
In times when the economy has hit many families negatively, voters showed Arizona that public safety is a priority. The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) thanks voters who supported Proposition 100. The temporary sales tax will allow Department of Public Safety (DPS) to operate at its current levels.
Voters go to the polls today (May 18th) to decide the fate of many state agencies. AHPA continues to be on the forefront in educating the public on why it is so important to vote Yes on 100. Voting yes saves hundreds of DPS jobs, and keeps us at our current service levels. View and read below what AHPA is doing to help inform Arizona voters.
Take a moment to view this extensive report on legislative news important to AHPA members. This report has been compiled by R&R Partners on behalf of AHPA.
The men and women of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) will paid their respects to the 28 Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers who have been killed in the line of duty. The Annual AHPA Police Officer Memorial Ceremony is took place Monday, May 3rd at 9 A.M.
On the morning of March 25, Kelsey Lundy and I met with Brian McNeil of the Governor’s Office. The purpose of the meeting was to get more insight and understanding of the process by which furloughs would be implemented or exempted based on the recently passed budget for FY2011 and FY2012, which was signed by the Governor on March 18. As explained earlier, those budgets included the permanent elimination of the state employee performance pay as well as implementing 6 furlough days in each of those two fiscal years. 
Since the Yes on 100 campaign to protect education and public safety launched a few weeks ago, tens of thousands of Arizonans have signed up to support our efforts. They know that Proposition 100 is a responsible solution for Arizona at this time.
The family and friends of Officer Robert K. Martin, a DPS officer who was shot to death during a traffic stop on August 15, 1995, get together yearly to remember him and his service. The Beeline Highway, where a memorial for Officer Martin remains, is kept beautiful in his honor. 
Arizona – The month of January 2010 was one of the deadliest months for police across the nation. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), law enforcement deaths are up 31% over last January 2009 nationwide. However, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) reminds the public that officers remain committed to their duties, and will continue to serve their public.
Arizona is experiencing unprecedented budget issues, and the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) is supportive of measures that would encourage revenue to assist public safety. In light of recent police tragedies and department cuts, the AHPA is supportive of Governor Brewer's proposal for a temporary sales tax to continue funding support to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Governor Jan Brewer announced her plan last Friday to help resolve the current Arizona budget deficit. The plan includes a 5% pay reduction for all state employees for 2010 and 2011, along with service cuts for state departments. The proposal did not include further operating cuts to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Many Arizona law enforcement agencies, including the Department of Public Safety, have received grant money to specifically enforce seatbelt safety. The "Click it or Ticket" laws have many parameters that any driver or passenger should know about. The Arizona Highway Patrol Association is providing seatbelt safety tips to the public that goes beyond the simple clicking noise of your seatbelt.
Text: The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) released preliminary statistics today about law enforcement related deaths as Arizona Department of Public Safety officers were involved in a high speed chase with a suspect on I-17 through Phoenix and then up to the high country. The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) members know far too well the losses and injuries that have been sustained to Department of Public Safety employees throughout the year.
Officer Chris Marano, 28, was struck on Loop 101 near Seventh Avenue. He was on the freeway to lay down a spike strip to help end a police chase.
Once again the AHPA sponsored Christmas Bear Program is going strong as coordinators and volunteers are stepping up to bring a Happy Christmas to children around the state. We have received confirmation from the coordinators listed below and encourage any volunteers to contact them directly if you want to help out.
(State of Arizona) The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) thanked Arizona Governor, Jan Brewer, today for signing into law H2010. This bill finalizes the budget for Department of Public Safety (DPS) and allows them to provide law enforcement services without interruption.
On 27 Aug 2009, AHPA President Jimmy Chavez, Vice President Bob Gilbert and Executive Officer Pat Eagan met with Senator John McCain at his Phoenix office. The meeting had been requested by Senator McCain to discuss several issues and to ask for AHPA's endorsement for his Senate Campaign. During the meeting several topics were discussed such as Legal Immigration/Migrant Workers, Illegal Immigration, and Inter-Agency Radio Operability.
Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) leads off their yearly "Comfort Bear” toy drive June 25th through July 26th to help console kids impacted by tragedy. AHPA is urging those willing to help by donating any stuffed animal, as the level is significantly lower from years past.
Yesterday in the House Appropriations Committee, House Bill 2636 received a Do Pass recommendation. This budget bill is a concern to us because of the language contained in Section 11 of the bill. That language would cause an increase to the employee contribution for members of PSPRS and CORP
Take a moment to read this letter from Reliance Armor Systems explaining their reasons for going out of business. The letter also provides contact information in case you need it.
With the ever increasing cost of living, the current state of our economy and the lack of any kind of substantial pay increase, your AHPA Board of Directors realizes it is becoming more and more difficult for you to make ends meet. In the true AHPA spirit of representing and supporting our members we are constantly looking for different ideas; looking for ways to better serve and represent you.
Early in this year's legislative session I was quite shocked to get a telephone call from a former colleague at the Phoenix Police Department who said, "You"ve got to stop the FOP from getting rid of DROP!” 
Recently, I attended a management seminar on the inclusion of Generation X and Y in our departments. One chief brought up an issue that struck home with many of us older folk. His point was we are constantly trying to find ways to include these groups in our departments, but what are we doing for our older officers?
On June 28, 2006, the Arizona Police Association honored Arizona State Senator Thayer Verschoor and Arizona State Representative Eddie Farnsworth with the 2006 Legislative Hero Awards
A pair of aces, and a pair of eights – four simple cards known simply as the Dead Man’s Hand. For years, the symbolic meaning of these cards has been misconstrued and demonized. 
“AHPA was instrumental in fighting for a 'Meet and Confer' bill that included all DPS employees. Without AHPA's hard work, civilians would have been left out of the process.”
For the second year in a row, the Arizona Police Association and the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs met to discuss and coordinate their legislative efforts. Collectively representing 14,000 rank-and-file law enforcement officers.
Start with a cage containing five monkeys. Inside the cage, hang a banana on a string and place a set of stairs under it. Before long, a monkey will go to the stairs and start to climb towards the banana.
At the conclusion of the 2006 legislative session, not only had the AHPA obtained the majority of our early goals - but we also added to the list of accomplishments by reconciling new issues that arose late in the session when it otherwise might have seemed impossible to find legislative solutions. 
AHPA files official complaint with Department over campaign practices by FOP. Click here for the full letter…
The F.O.P. may not think it’s a big deal to steal the names and home addresses of all DPS employees, but we do. AHPA values your privacy and knows that as law enforcement professionals, your home address and personal information should be protected – from any unofficial use.
Daniel Novasad has been sentenced to nearly 40 years in prison for the 2007 shooting of DPS officer Kyle DeForest, County Attorney Andrew Thomas announced today.
"Go ahead, shoot me!" Over the last ten years, one would be hard pressed to find an officer that has not heard this emanating from a suspect that is taunting him or her, confident that the officer will not pull the trigger. Lately there has been some scrutiny in what appears to be a growing trend by officers not to use force, even when they are completely justified in doing so.
Senator Kyl has fought for funds that have assisted state and local agencies in their fights against sex crimes against children, methamphetamine, child pornography, and violent crimes. He has further assisted in acquiring funds for national sex offender registration and DNA testing technologies.
This is a poem dedicated to a very difficult job and the people who do it. Often those not involved in public safety don't fully understand the sacrifices given on their behalf each day.
Every day, 19,000 people discover their identity has been stolen. You could be one of them.
Past President Andy Swann addressed the Board on the 2007 Legislative session and an review on bills submitted by the Association. 
"Our Dispatchers" is a poem by an unknown author dedicated to the hard work done by dispatchers and the invaluable part they play in law enforcement. AHPA wants our dispatchers to know that we also appreciate the hard work and dedication they put in everyday so we have reposted the poem here for all to see.
It's obvious that law enforcement is a stressful and demanding profession. Expected to be a jack of all trades, the cop handles myriad responsibilities, from assisting stranded motorists and checking the welfare of a homebound senior to enforcing traffic law, investigating homicides, quelling disturbances and arresting drug dealers. The typical shift is highly unpredictable and includes varying levels of excitement and boredom, as expressed in this axiom commonly attributed to police work: "Hours and days of utter boredom interspersed with a few mercifully brief moments of sheer terror." 
The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) firmly assert their support for Sgt. Tom Lovejoy, a Chandler police officer who is currently facing criminal charges in the accidental death of his service canine, Bandit.
The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) is commemorating its' long history as a partner with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in advancing the quality of life for DPS employees, serving our community, and in remembering our fallen DPS Officers. This commemoration is being done with the availability of two challenge coins. 
By the time you read this, an important anniversary will have passed. December 9 was the 26th anniversary of the murder of Danny Faulkner by Mumia Abu-Jamal. Most Americans have probably heard the murderer's name, as in "Free Mumia!" However, there's a pretty good chance that many do not know the name of Jamal's victim, Philadelphia Police Officer Daniel Faulkner, Badge Number 4699. That is both a very real pity and an unfortunate sign of the times we live in, where bad guys are almost always more famous than their victims. 
Here is the revised "Question and Answer Session" schedule for the First Quarter 2008. "Question and Answer Sessions" are designed for Police Officers and Fire Fighters who are thinking about retiring and have questions about our system (PSPRS), changes in the system, retiring, DROP, Reverse DROP and creating the right financial plan for themselves and their families.
A jury has failed to convict Border Patrol Agent Nick Corbett on any of the three charges brought by Cochise County Attorney Ed Rheinheimer. Rheinheimer hired former Arizona AG Grant Woods to prosecute the agent, and Woods brought along his side kick Lee Rappelyea, past-president of the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police and Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 2.
2008 Arizona Highway Patrol Association Raffle winners from the 40th Annual John Walker Memorial Rodeo.
The second regular session of the 48th Legislature adjourned sine die on June 27th, 2008. The Legislature approved 347 of the 1380 bills introduced. Legislation will become effective on the general effective date of September 26th, 2008- unless otherwise specified within the language of the bill. 
In a world of increasing responsibilities for State employees and growing turnover due to retirement, competitive wages and compensation are imperative since they reduce voluntary turnover, increase morale and attract better workers.
Tomorrow at approximately 11:00 a.m., Senate Appropriation will convene to hear and vote on several budget bills for FY 2010. Of interest to us are the Amendments to SB1028 and SB1035. Within those budget bills is language that greatly affects our members. 
Thanks to the efforts of Association members, the issues concerning employee retirement contribution rates in the Legislative budget have been removed. The emails and phone calls by members in addition to personal meetings by the AHPA President have helped convinced enough members to remove the provision that would have caused a decrease in take home pay for officers. We are continuing to work with lawmakers regarding the secondary employment overtime used for calculating retirement benefits and dispatchers moving into CORP. These are still very important issues that need your action. Stay tuned for more info as state budget negotiations continue.
