MPD Recognizes Those Who Make a Difference

Published on September 24, 2026

An oath taken. A badge pinned by a loved one. A career celebrated. A neighbor stopping to help.

Each moment represented a different kind of service as the Maricopa Police Department recently recognized new leaders, a retiring officer’s legacy, volunteer chaplains and residents who stepped up when someone needed help.

The ceremony marked a significant moment for MPD’s leadership, with four sworn personnel advancing into supervisory and command roles. Kevin McCullar and Sean Horst were promoted to sergeant, while Scott Robinson and Ari Cohen were promoted to lieutenant.

Sergeants provide direct supervision and leadership to officers in the field, while lieutenants take on broader responsibility for personnel and operations. Advancing four members of MPD’s ranks at the same time represents an important investment in the department’s leadership structure and the people who will help guide its future.

Each newly promoted officer was pinned by a friend or loved one before taking the oath of office administered by Pinal County Superior Court Judge Jason Holmberg.

MPD’s professional staff also celebrated new leadership. Kendra Lange was promoted to Records Manager and Karla Wear to Dispatch Supervisor, overseeing two critical functions that support police operations and the services residents rely on.

“One of the strengths of this department is our ability to develop leaders from within. These promotions reflect the experience and leadership we already have here, and I’m excited to see what each of them brings to their new role,” Police Chief Mark Goodman said.

As new leaders stepped forward, the ceremony also honored the retirement of Mike Ewald following 26 years as a sworn peace officer, including nearly a decade with MPD after joining the department in 2017.

Colleagues recognized Ewald’s commitment, work ethic and the example he set, as well as his dedication to mentoring others and helping the department grow. Goodman reflected on that lasting influence, noting that Ewald’s “fingerprints are on this department in ways that will remain long after this evening.”

In recognition of Chaplain Appreciation Month, Community Support Specialist Jim DeVenezia also recognized four MPD chaplains for the support they provide to officers, department employees and community members, particularly during times of crisis, grief and loss.

“When our chaplains are called out, they’re responding to some of the most difficult calls we receive. They’re there with families who have just lost a loved one, often in the first moments of grief, providing comfort and support when people need it most. They respond to many of these calls throughout the year, and we’re incredibly grateful for the compassion they bring to everyone.” DeVenezia said.

The evening also honored Anna Aja and Logan Bates with Citizen Awards for stepping up when a cyclist needed help. Aja observed the cyclist unconscious and immediately called 911, while Bates stopped to render aid until law enforcement and emergency personnel arrived.

Their actions demonstrated another important part of public safety: residents willing to recognize when someone needs help and take action.

From new leaders and decades of service to volunteers and residents who step forward, the ceremony highlighted the many people who contribute to keeping Maricopa safe and supporting the community.