Former Maricopa PD Dispatcher Becomes one of MPD’s Newest Officers

Published on April 10, 2024

When a call comes in to 9-1-1, the response will be slightly different for one of the City of Maricopa Police Department’s newest officers, Sonja Hoffmann. That’s because she has spent the last several years answering the phone lines for the City of Maricopa’s dispatch center and two other Arizona agencies. But now, she’s one of MPD’s newest officers after graduating at the top of her class at the Gilbert Regional Police Academy this spring.

“I have always wanted to be a police officer, but chose to prioritize going to school,” Officer Hoffmann explains. “I graduated in 2021 with my master’s degree, and working as a dispatcher allowed me the flexibility to do that.”

She says she was originally drawn to Maricopa in 2019 because of its friendly, small-town atmosphere. A feeling she says was solidified when she went through the interview process and was welcomed on board. 

“Maricopa is a great agency; the people who work here truly become your family,” Officer Hoffmann shares. “I was presented with the opportunity to make the transition to the field this last year and haven’t looked back.”

So, for 22 weeks, Hoffmann ran training simulations, completed physical fitness workouts and attended classroom presentations alongside seven different valley agencies and five other MPD recruits. She even earned a recognition at graduation for maintaining the highest academic scores throughout the program. 

"Officer Hoffmann's journey from a dedicated dispatcher to becoming one of our newest officers underscores our commitment to nurturing and realizing the talents within our ranks,” Maricopa Police Chief Mark Goodman shares. “Sonja's story is a testament to the possibilities that await those who are driven to serve their community, showcasing that a career in law enforcement is not just about wearing the badge, but also about the journey and growth that lead there.”

Now, as she completes her post-academy field training, she says she still feels like she has the upper hand thanks to her dispatch experience. 

“The shift in responsibility is drastically different; however, I find that my background in dispatch significantly assists me on my calls for service,” she shares. “Having a background in how to utilize a radio, the 10-codes we utilize, and just basic communication skills with the public are truly vital.”

“I believe dispatch gave me a valuable opportunity to learn so much about the job without being in the thick of the danger. Being an officer has opened my eyes to how hard the officers truly work and why it can take longer to clear some calls over others.”

Hoffmann says no matter which side of the radio someone is working on, they all contribute to the greater safety of our community. 

“Both jobs are vital backbones to public safety. Dispatchers are truly the first responders; however, officers are the first hands-on responders. Without the assistance of both careers working simultaneously, the public would truly suffer,” she says.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in public safety with the City of Maricopa, Visit www.maricopa-az.gov/MPDCareers