Proactive and Always Improving: MPD Reflects on a Year of Growth and Service
Post Date:04/07/2026 7:30 PM
Much of the work that keeps a community safe happens long before an officer responds to a call. It happens in training sessions, in careful review of case files, and in the systems that support every investigation.
In 2025, the Maricopa Police Department (MPD) focused on strengthening that foundation. By investing in recruitment, retaining experienced officers, and improving records, evidence management, and investigative processes, the department worked to better support a growing city.
“We’re constantly looking for ways to adapt and improve,” said Chief Mark Goodman. “From hiring new recruits to modernizing our evidence practices, we want the community to know we’re proactively strengthening every part of MPD so we can serve Maricopa effectively.”
Front-line response
That work carried through to the front lines. MPD responded to more than 30,000 calls for service, ranging from traffic stops to welfare checks, resulting in a 2% decrease in crime per capita.
The Traffic Unit, responsible for more than half of all traffic citations, issued 2,428 tickets this year and strengthened its team with three motor officers and a new traffic investigator.
Meanwhile, the Community Resource Navigators (CRN) focused on resolving calls without uniformed officers, making sure residents got the support they needed. In 2025, the CRN resolved 233 calls independently and completed 655 follow-ups, ensuring that the right help reached the right people at the right time.
Investigations in action
Behind the scenes, the Criminal Investigations Division (CID) took on some of the most complex cases of the year. The division handled 23% more serious investigations than in 2024 and achieved a 67% increase in indictments, holding those who break the law accountable.
Some highlights from the year include:
Large-scale narcotics operation: Two suspects distributing methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and LSD were arrested after search warrants seized multiple firearms and a stolen trailer.
Longest missing juveniles recovered: Two youth listed by NCMEC as Arizona’s longest missing were safely located, thanks to detectives’ persistence and coordination.
Multi-state fraud scheme: Detectives unraveled an identity theft and rental fraud network, executing search warrants across state lines, recovering firearms and drugs, and securing a conviction.
The Property and Evidence Unit also strengthened its operations, completing a comprehensive review of 8,347 items dating back to 2007, transporting 372 items to the DPS lab, releasing 575 to owners, and relocating 23 vehicles to a new impound lot. Longtime staff and volunteers brought expertise and care to every step of evidence management, maintaining accuracy, compliance, and public trust.
Dispatch: Bringing it together
The Emergency Communications Center (ECC) handled a growing volume of calls—75,713 total, a 9% increase—while maintaining national 911 performance standards.
Innovations included:
School safety & rapid notification: Lockdown and panic alarms integrated directly into the 911 RapidSOS dashboard for faster officer response.
Transit safety: Panic button activations from Maricopa Express Transit vehicles now provide live GPS and video for immediate dispatch coordination.
PRN Dispatcher Program: Five experienced part-time dispatchers strengthened staffing coverage and injected critical experience into daily operations.
Investing in the future: People and programs
Recruitment remained strong: 267 new recruit applications and 55 lateral applications led to nine recruits and one lateral hire, while sworn personnel retention stayed high at 92% over three years.
The K9 Unit expanded in 2025. K9 Rico joined Officer Ordonez on patrol, newly certified in narcotics detection, assisting in real-world deployments, and strengthening the unit’s citywide support.
Connecting with the community
Programs like Shop with a Cop, Ice Cream Socials, MPD Tours, and the Against Abuse Angel Tree gave residents opportunities to get to know officers beyond emergencies. Chief Goodman explained:
“Getting to know the people we serve helps us do our jobs better. When residents see the faces behind the badge, it builds trust, understanding, and stronger communities.”
Throughout 2025, MPD officers and staff attended HOA meetings, city events, and community gatherings, helping residents feel connected, supported, and confident in their neighborhood.
MPD’s proactive approach, combined with investments in staff, technology, and community programs, helped the department stay ahead of potential challenges while ensuring the community remains safe and well-supported.
View the full 2025 MPD slideshow presentation here.
Watch a video replay of Chief Goodman’s 2025 MPD Annual Report below.
