Published on July 17, 2025
With the new school year approaching, the Maricopa Police Department is gearing up for Operation Safe Start, a multi-agency traffic enforcement initiative reminding drivers to follow the rules of the road all year round in school zones.
On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, officers from MPD, Arizona Department of Public Safety, Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, Casa Grande and Eloy will be out patrolling school zones across Maricopa looking for unsafe drivers.
“School zones deserve our full attention and care,” said Sgt. Hal Koozer, who is leading the operation. “We know mornings can be hectic and routines take time to settle, but that’s exactly why it’s important to plan ahead, slow down, and make safe driving decisions. A few extra minutes can make all the difference in protecting our kids.”
Operation Safe Start targets high-risk behaviors, including speeding in school zones, ignoring school bus stop signs, failing to yield at crosswalks, and distracted driving, such as texting. Violators may face fines, citations, or other penalties. The initiative aims to educate drivers while holding offenders accountable.
“It really comes down to keeping everyone safe around our schools,” Koozer said. “Whether you're dropping off your kids, heading to class, or just driving through the area — take it slow, stay off your phone, and pay attention. We all play a part in keeping these zones safe.”
While Operation Safe Start is a one-day, high-visibility effort, the work to protect students is ongoing. MPD remains committed to monitoring school zones, responding to concerns, and promoting safe driving habits throughout the entire school year.
Be sure to follow The Maricopa Police Department’s social media pages, where you can find helpful reminders and traffic safety information, including upcoming road work or closures that can impact travel across town.
Join us in prioritizing student safety and keeping Maricopa’s roads secure all year long.