Arizona Department of Public Safety Services
The Arizona Department of Public Safety is, as its website states, a multifaceted law enforcement agency with a wide variety of duties. Like all other law enforcement agencies, it is composed of sworn officers, technical staff, and an administrative wing. While the highway patrol division is the most visible section of AZ DPS, it also has a criminal investigation division with duties that include intelligence, anti-gang programs, and drug trafficking enforcement. The Department of Public Safety provides auxiliary support throughout the state of Arizona to other law enforcement agencies, sometimes acting as a “mixed bag” when necessary. This support, made possible by their spread across the state, is a great benefit to other, smaller law enforcement agencies.
AZ DPS traces its roots to the Arizona Rangers, founded in 1901. The Rangers were the first regional law enforcement agency in the area, providing support to local sheriffs and enforcing various state laws. A few years later they dissolved, shortly after Arizona became a state. In 1931 the Highway Patrol division was formed as part of the Arizona Department of Highways. With enough manpower to provide each county with a deputy, his enforcement skills were appreciated but not particularly widespread. Over time, the Department has grown to more than 2,100 employees to include an aviation wing and specialized units for different types of compliance needs.
The largest section of AZ DPS is still the highway patrol. The distinctive white and blue patrol cars are common on Arizona highways, especially in the greater Phoenix area. Officers issue thousands of citations each year for a variety of motoring violations, with the intent of keeping the roadways safer for motorists.
The Criminal Investigations Division conducts investigations and performs a wide variety of services throughout the state. AZ DPS has a fully operational Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team that can respond throughout the state of Arizona. Due to the increased danger along the border with Mexico, the Department of Public Safety has assumed an important investigative and training role to help combat the smuggling of people and illegal drugs.
A little-known division of the AZ DPS is the Highway Service. This service provides water and tools to stranded motorists and works to clear the road when accidents and collisions occur. If you are stranded in the Arizona summer sun, you can contact them and they will bring a fully equipped tow truck/utility and can help repair or get your vehicle off the road.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety is committed to serving the public and has performed admirably during its years of service. While the highway patrolman may not be the most popular person at the party, his actions to protect the community are always appreciated.