The Marana Police Department (MPD) serves as the primary municipal law enforcement agency for the Town of Marana, Arizona. Situated within Pima County, this department is tasked with maintaining public order, ensuring traffic safety, and providing comprehensive emergency services to a growing population of over 57,000 residents. Operating from its headquarters at the Marana Civic Center, the department functions through a structured hierarchy designed to prioritize community-oriented policing and professional integrity.

Emergency and Non-Emergency Contact Methods

Immediate access to law enforcement services is a critical component of public safety in Marana. The department maintains distinct channels for different levels of urgency to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently.

For life-threatening emergencies, crimes in progress, or situations requiring immediate medical or fire intervention, the standard 911 system is the primary point of contact. This system routes callers directly to dispatchers trained to coordinate rapid responses across multiple jurisdictions if necessary.

For situations that do not pose an immediate threat to life or property, the Marana Police Department utilizes a non-emergency dispatch line at (520) 382-2000. This line is appropriate for reporting past-tense crimes, noise complaints, or general inquiries. Utilizing the non-emergency line for appropriate calls helps keep 911 lines open for critical incidents.

The physical headquarters is located at: Marana Police Department 11555 W. Civic Center Drive Marana, AZ 85653

Administrative business hours are generally conducted Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. While administrative staff operate during these hours, patrol and emergency response services are active 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Organizational Leadership and the Mission of Public Safety

The Marana Police Department operates under a clear mission statement: to provide unparalleled service and unwavering protection to every citizen while maintaining uncompromising integrity. This mission is overseen by a command staff led by the Chief of Police and the Deputy Chief, who coordinate the strategic vision of the agency.

Chief Jeffrey Pridgett leads the department, emphasizing a culture of professionalism and community connection. The leadership structure includes a Deputy Chief, currently Roberto Jimenez, and two Captains who oversee the Field Services Division and the Support Services Division. This split in command ensures that both active street operations and the complex administrative infrastructure of a modern police force receive dedicated oversight.

The department’s vision is to serve as a role model for public safety agencies within the state of Arizona. This involves a commitment to high standards of conduct for all members, whether they are sworn officers, non-sworn professional staff, or volunteers.

Field Services Division and Operational Units

The Field Services Division represents the most visible aspect of the Marana Police Department. This division is responsible for the proactive and reactive patrol of the town’s streets and neighborhoods. It is subdivided into several specialized units that address specific safety concerns.

Patrol Operations

The backbone of the MPD is the Patrol Unit. Officers assigned to patrol are divided into squads that provide constant coverage across the town’s geographical sectors. Their primary responsibilities include responding to calls for service, conducting initial investigations at crime scenes, and engaging in proactive traffic enforcement. Patrol officers are often the first point of contact for residents in crisis, requiring them to be proficient in de-escalation, first aid, and crisis intervention.

Criminal Investigations Unit (CIU)

When crimes require extended investigation beyond the initial report, the Criminal Investigations Unit takes the lead. Detectives in CIU specialize in various fields, including property crimes, crimes against persons, and financial crimes. They work closely with the Pima County Attorney’s Office to build cases for prosecution, utilizing forensic evidence and witness interviews to resolve complex criminal matters.

Direct Action Response Team (DART)

The DART unit is a flexible, proactive team designed to address specific crime trends or localized issues that require more focus than standard patrol can provide. Whether targeting a spike in retail theft or conducting surveillance on known criminal hotspots, DART allows the department to be surgical in its approach to crime reduction.

K9 Unit

The Marana Police Department utilizes highly trained canine teams to assist in various high-risk operations. These K9 teams are instrumental in tracking suspects who have fled on foot, searching buildings for hidden intruders, and detecting illegal narcotics. The presence of a K9 unit serves as a significant deterrent and provides an additional layer of safety for officers during volatile encounters.

Traffic and Motor Unit

Given the rapid growth of Marana and its proximity to major transit corridors like Interstate 10, traffic safety is a high priority. The Motor Unit focuses on enforcing traffic laws, investigating collisions, and managing traffic flow during major events. Their goal is to reduce the number of traffic-related injuries and fatalities through both enforcement and public education regarding road safety.

Support Services and Administrative Functions

The Support Services Division handles the essential "behind-the-scenes" work that allows the department to function as a legal and administrative entity. This division manages everything from emergency communications to the preservation of evidence.

Communications Center

The Communications Center is the nerve center of the department. Dispatchers here manage both 911 and non-emergency calls, translating chaotic information into actionable data for officers in the field. They are responsible for tracking officer locations, checking criminal databases, and ensuring that backup is sent where needed.

Records Unit

The Records Unit is the primary point of contact for individuals needing official documentation. This unit processes all police reports, citations, and warrants. They ensure that all records are maintained in compliance with Arizona public records laws and manage the dissemination of information to the public, legal representatives, and other government agencies.

Property and Evidence

The integrity of a criminal case often hinges on the proper handling of evidence. The Property and Evidence Unit is responsible for the intake, storage, and eventual disposal of all items seized during investigations. This requires rigorous documentation and climate-controlled storage to ensure that evidence remains untainted for use in court.

Training Unit

To maintain its status as a premier law enforcement agency, the MPD invests heavily in continuous training. The Training Unit ensures that all officers meet state certification requirements and receive ongoing education in areas such as use-of-force policy, legal updates, and community policing strategies.

How to Request Public Records and Accident Reports

A frequent reason for contacting the Marana Police Department is to obtain copies of police reports or accident records for insurance or legal purposes. The department has established specific protocols for these requests to ensure accuracy and legal compliance.

Obtaining Accident Reports

Individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents within the Marana town limits can obtain a copy of the official crash report. The department typically takes five to ten business days to process these reports after the date of the incident. There are two primary ways to request these documents:

  1. In-Person Requests: Residents can visit the Records Unit at the Civic Center during administrative hours. It is recommended to call (520) 382-2008 beforehand to confirm that the report is finalized and available. The standard fee for these reports is currently $0.50 per page.
  2. Mail Requests: A written request can be sent to the Marana Police Department Records Unit. This request must include the case number (if known), the date of the accident, and the names of the involved parties, along with the required fee and a self-addressed stamped envelope.

General Public Records Requests

Beyond accident reports, other police records may be requested under Arizona’s public records laws. These requests are subject to review to ensure that sensitive information—such as the identities of minors or ongoing investigative details—is appropriately redacted. Requests can be initiated through the department’s official records portal or by submitting a formal request form at the headquarters.

Community Outreach and Public Safety Programs

The Marana Police Department operates under the philosophy that public safety is a shared responsibility between the police and the community. To foster this partnership, several programs are available to residents.

Citizens Police Academy

The Citizens Police Academy is an educational program designed to give residents an inside look at how their police department operates. Participants attend weekly sessions covering topics such as patrol procedures, criminal investigations, and use-of-force decision-making. This program aims to build transparency and mutual understanding between officers and the public.

Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS)

The VIPS program allows community members to contribute their time and skills to support the department. Volunteers assist with administrative tasks, community events, and non-enforcement activities, such as vacation watch programs. This allows sworn officers to focus on core law enforcement duties while keeping the community engaged.

Marana Police Cadets

For youth interested in a career in law enforcement, the Cadet program provides mentorship and training. Cadets learn about the various aspects of police work, participate in community service, and compete in regional law enforcement competitions. This program serves as a vital recruitment tool and a way to instill leadership values in the next generation.

Dispose-a-Med Program

To prevent the misuse of prescription drugs and protect the environment, the MPD participates in the Dispose-a-Med program. Residents can drop off expired or unused medications at designated collection bins at the police headquarters. This initiative helps prevent accidental poisonings and reduces the amount of pharmaceutical waste entering the water supply.

Accountability and Professional Standards

Maintaining public trust requires a commitment to accountability. The Marana Police Department’s Office of Professional Standards is responsible for investigating allegations of employee misconduct and ensuring adherence to the department’s General Orders Manual.

Filing Feedback or Complaints

The department welcomes both compliments for exemplary service and complaints regarding officer conduct. Feedback can be provided by contacting the on-duty supervisor at (520) 382-2000.

For formal complaints, the department conducts thorough and impartial investigations. The process typically involves:

  • Initial contact with a supervisor to resolve misunderstandings.
  • If unresolved, a formal internal affairs investigation is launched.
  • The complainant is notified of the findings, though specific disciplinary actions are often protected by personnel privacy laws.

The department emphasizes that while it takes all complaints seriously, false reporting can lead to criminal or civil consequences. This balance ensures that both the public and the employees are protected under the law.

Career Opportunities and Recruitment Standards

As Marana continues to grow, the police department frequently seeks qualified individuals to join its ranks as both sworn officers and professional staff. The recruitment process is rigorous, ensuring that only those who meet high ethical and physical standards are hired.

Minimum requirements for police officer applicants generally include:

  • United States citizenship.
  • A minimum age (usually 21 by the time of academy graduation).
  • A high school diploma or GED, with some college often preferred.
  • A valid driver’s license.
  • The ability to pass extensive background checks, polygraph tests, and physical agility assessments.

The department offers various benefits, including merit pay, shift differentials, and specialized skills pay for units like SWAT or bilingual officers. New recruits typically attend a regional police academy followed by an intensive Field Training Officer (FTO) program within Marana.

FAQ regarding Marana Law Enforcement

What is the difference between the Marana Police Department and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department? The Marana Police Department has jurisdiction within the incorporated town limits of Marana. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department handles law enforcement in unincorporated areas of the county and on major highways. If an incident occurs on a highway like I-10, the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) or the Sheriff’s Department may have jurisdiction.

How do I request a "Vacation Watch" for my home? The MPD offers a service where officers or VIPS volunteers check on your residence while you are away. This can be requested through the official town website or by visiting the police headquarters. You will need to provide the dates of your absence and emergency contact information.

Can I get fingerprinted at the Marana Police Department? Yes, the department provides fingerprinting services for employment or licensing requirements. These services are typically offered during specific hours, and it is advisable to call ahead to schedule an appointment or verify availability. There is usually a fee associated with this service.

How can I see crime statistics for my neighborhood? The Marana Police Department provides access to an online community crime map. This tool allows residents to view recent incidents, such as thefts or traffic accidents, in their specific area. This transparency helps residents stay informed and take proactive safety measures.

What should I do if my vehicle was impounded? If your vehicle was impounded by the Marana Police, you must contact the department’s impound line at (520) 382-2026 for information on the release process, fees, and required documentation. Most impounds are subject to a mandatory 20-day holding period depending on the reason for the seizure.

Summary of Marana Police Department Operations

The Marana Police Department is a multi-faceted agency that balances traditional law enforcement with modern community engagement. From its high-tech Communications Center to its specialized K9 and DART units, the department is equipped to handle the challenges of a rapidly expanding municipality. By providing clear avenues for public records access, community participation, and officer accountability, the MPD maintains a strong relationship with the residents of Marana. Whether through responding to a 911 call or hosting a Citizens Police Academy session, the department remains committed to its core values of service, protection, and integrity.