Home Authors Articles byStaff Reports

Staff Reports

468 Articles 0 COMMENTS

As vote count winds up, Arizona looking more purple

by Staff Reports - Nov 13, 2018

As Pinal County continues to tabulate 6,000 provisional ballots, Arizona seems to be a little more purple following the Nov. 6 election.

Republicans swept locally and have apparently retained five seats at the state level, but Democrats have a foothold in three races while also picking up the available U.S. Senate seat.

After trailing early, Democrat Kyrsten Sinema pulled away from the GOP’s Martha McSally in that Senate race to win by a margin of 50 percent to 48 percent. She will become the first female to represent Arizona in the U.S. Senate. McSally conceded by congratulating Sinema, but may be first in line for the other Senate seat if interim Sen. Jon Kyl opts not to fulfill the rest of the term.

In Congressional District 1, Democrat Tom O’Halleran easily held his seat against Republican Wendy Rogers. Both Sinema and O’Halleran emphasized the notion of their independence and bipartisanship in winning over non-Democrats.

“I am humbled and grateful for the outpouring of support my campaign has received from Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike,” O’Halleran posted on social media. He has been all three in his political career.

While Republicans had easy wins for governor (Doug Ducey), attorney general (Mark Brnovich), treasurer (Kimberly Yee) and mine inspector (Joe Hart), other races flipped.

Like Sinema, Democrat Sandra Kennedy trailed the two Republicans in the early counting for the two seats on the Corporation Commission. By Friday, however, she had moved into second, displacing Rodney Glassman. By Sunday, she had moved into first place ahead of incumbent Justin Olson.

In a race with no incumbent, Republican Frank Riggs had a small lead over Kathy Hoffman for superintendent of public instruction, but the Democrat pushed past him by 54,000 votes late in the count for a 51 percent-49 percent victory. Perhaps most intriguing of all was the race for secretary of state. The lead flipped back and forth every day following the election with Republican Steve Gaynor most often in the lead until the weekend, when Democrat Katie Hobbs moved ahead by nearly 6,000 votes.

Sunny days, cool nights ahead for Maricopa

by Staff Reports - Nov 12, 2018

wth_111218_Hendrickson — Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

Clear skies and cool temperatures will be common this week in Maricopa, according to the National Weather Service.

Today‘s high is 65 degrees F with breezes of 10-15 mph. Tonight, the temperature could drop to 40 degrees.

Tuesday is forecast to be sunny with a high near 65 with winds gusting as high as 20 mph. The night is likely to be clear with a low around 39.

Wednesday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high near 69 and calm winds. The overnight low will likely be around 40.

Thursday has a sunny forecast during the day with a high near 73. The nighttime low will again likely fall to 40.

Friday, the high may be near 72 under sunny skies, while the overnight low will be around 43 under partly cloudy skies.

From this distance, the weekend looks to have some clouds but warmer temperatures in the mid-70s.

Sinema, Hoffman pass GOP opponents in updated counts

by Staff Reports - Nov 8, 2018

As the ballot-counting continues statewide, Democrats made some gains on Republicans. Two of them overtook their opponents, at least for the time being.

U.S. Senate and superintendent of public instruction have been the tightest races since election night. In the former, Democrat Kyrsten Sinema trailed Republican Martha McSally until Thursday afternoon. Sinema currently leads by just over 2,000 votes. In the latter race, Democrat Kathy Hoffman trailed early but has moved past Republican Frank Riggs by almost 12,000 votes.

(Projected winner in purple)

U.S. Senate
Kyrsten Sinema (D) 48.9%
Martha McSally (R) 48.8%

U.S. House of Representatives District 1
Tom O’Halleran (D) 53.3%
Wendy Rogers (R) 46.7%

Governor
Doug Ducey (R) 57.4%
David Garcia (D) 40.6%

Secretary of State
Steve Gaynor (R) 50.8%
Katie Hobbs (D) 49.2%

Attorney General
Mark Brnovich (R) 53%
January Contreras (D) 47%

State Treasurer
Kimberly Yee (R) 55.3%
Mark Manoil (D) 44.7%

Superintendent of Public Instruction
Kathy Hoffman (D) 50.3%
Frank Riggs (R) 49.7%

Clear skies forecast for Veterans Day weekend

by Staff Reports - Nov 8, 2018

plainview paving — Under clear skies, crews continue the paving of Plainview Street, a new connector between Maricopa-Casa Grande Highway and Honeycutt Road.

Veterans Day weekend is all set to be sunny and mild in Maricopa, according to the National Weather Service.

Today‘s high is expected to reach 77 degrees F with calm breezes. Tonight, the low is expected to be around 51.

Friday is forecast to be sunny with a high near 78 and winds around 10 mph. The overnight low should be around 51 under clear skies.

Saturday‘s parade will likely see sunny skies, a high near 77 and winds of 5-10 mph. The nighttime low will be around 48.

Sunday, Veterans Day, is expected to be sunny with a high near 76. The night will likely be clear with a low around 44.

The coming week is expected to be a carbon copies, though clouds may move in mid-week.

Recorded conversation between suspects center of pre-trail hearing for Miller murder case

by Staff Reports - Nov 8, 2018

Magana, Arthur — Arthur Eric Magana is scheduled for trial next week in the death of Wyatt Miller.

The trial of Arthur Magaña, 18, on a charge of first-degree murder is set to begin next week with jury selection, but the judge had to rule on an important issue Wednesday in an evidentiary hearing.

Homicide Detective Joe Bonucci took the stand in Pinal County Superior Court to talk about the night Magaña was arrested after the shooting death of Wyatt Miller, 20. That was Nov. 7, 2016, exactly two years before this week’s hearing.

In pre-trial paperwork, Magaña’s counsel had filed a motion to suppress statements, claiming a Miranda warning violation during interrogation. Judge Kevin White asked to hear the detective’s account of that night during Wednesday’s hearing before ruling on the matter.

Two days earlier, Magaña’s one-time co-defendant, Gustavo Olivo, was sentenced to 25 years in prison after reaching a plea agreement with the Pinal County Attorney’s Office. Olivo admitted to second-degree murder and armed robbery but said Magana was the gunman.

Magaña is charged with murder and armed robbery.

Wednesday, Miller’s father and Magaña’s mother attended the hearing.

Prosecutor Patrick Johnson asked Bonucci detailed questions about the night of the arrest in an effort to disprove the defense’s claims. Bonucci was the case agent and on-call detective. According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, a report of shots fired was logged at 7:30 p.m. and deputies arrived shortly after.

At 8 p.m., Bonucci was called by his supervisor and sent to the scene on a rural road south of Maricopa. While en route, he was informed there were two locations being investigated. Miller’s body had been found in a Chevy pickup truck on Cardinal Road “a hundred yards or so from the nearest residence,” and two suspects had been found at a home on Oak Road.

Bonucci testified no deputies interrogated Magaña or Olivo at the scene. He said one teen was placed in a PCSO vehicle while the other was placed in an Ak-Chin Police vehicle during the preliminary investigation. Eventually, both were placed in a PCSO posse vehicle, and an investigation team member placed a digital recorder in the vehicle. Bonucci said the suspects, who were 16 and 17 at the time, were not questioned in the car, either.

The detective said they later found the digital recorder to have been tampered with or the batteries removed.

Magaña and Olivo were taken to PCSO in Florence, arriving at 3:13 a.m. Bonucci said they were taken to the second floor and placed in separate interview rooms across the hall from each other.

Having learned on the trip back to Florence that the teens were under age 18, Bonucci said his team employed juvenile protocol, which included contacting a legal guardian for each before interrogation. In Magaña’s case, his mother arrived and was soon taken to the interrogation room to be with her son.

It was at that point, Bonucci testified, Magaña was read his Miranda rights. He opted not to answer questions without an attorney, he said.

Meanwhile, Olivo was allowed to have a phone conversation with a sister who was not his legal guardian. Bonucci said Olivo answered some questions before also invoking his Miranda rights, and the interview stopped.

Bonucci testified the teens were placed in one interview room where they could be monitored by video and audio while the investigative team tried to work out whether to book them into juvenile detention or adult detention.

“We knew they would be remanded and charged as adults,” he said.

During the disagreement among the authorities (the teens were eventually booked into juvenile detention), Magaña and Olivo apparently had a conversation while they waited. Bonucci said investigators did not talk to them, they were not interrogated, questioned, coerced or threatened, but they were recorded.

“It’s an interview room,” Bonucci said. “The interview room is recorded.”

What was said during that one-on-one conversation in the interview room was at the heart of the motion to suppress.

White ruled the situation was not a Miranda issue and several statements made during that conversation could be used as evidence during the trial. The judge disagreed with the defense counsel’s argument that the teens’ conversation took place in an “ad hoc continuation of the interview” and should have been part of the invocation of Miranda rights.

White also said there was no “custodial interrogation” and no indication Olivo “was acting as an agent of the state” or trying to make Magaña make incriminating statements.

Jury selection is scheduled for Tuesday. White said he is confident the trial will be finished by Nov. 21.

Maricopa Home Sales

by Staff Reports - Nov 7, 2018

Nov. 1-30, 2017

Oct. 1-31, 2017

Sept. 1-30, 2017

Aug. 1-31, 2017

July 1-31, 2017

June 1-30, 2017

May 1-31, 2017

April 1-30, 2017

March 1-31, 2017

Feb. 1-28, 2017

Jan. 1-31, 2017

Dec. 1-31, 2016

Nov. 1-30, 2016

Sept. 16-Oct. 15, 2016

Aug. 16-Sept. 15, 2016

June 16-July 16, 2016

May 16-June 15, 2016

April 16-May 15, 2016

Feb. 1-29, 2016

Pinal County Sheriff’s Office Crime Reports

by Staff Reports - Nov 7, 2018

August 31-Sept. 2, 2018

March 30-April 1, 2018

Sept. 29 – Oct. 01, 2017

March 31-April 2, 2017

Dec. 30, 2016-Jan. 2, 2017

Sept. 30-Oct. 2, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015-Jan. 3, 2016

Tight races for federal, state posts in early counting

by Staff Reports - Nov 7, 2018

senateCand — Kyrsten Sinema (left) and Martha McSally

With 88 percent of all precinct’s reporting, Republican Martha McSally retains a slim lead over Democrat Kyrsten Sinema in the race for U.S. Senate.

Several of the majority-Democrat Apache County precincts remain outstanding as ballot-counting continues. McSally leads Sinema 49 percent to 48 percent.

In Congressional District 1, Democrat Tom O’Halleran leads Republican Wendy Rogers 53 percent to 47 percent. That district also awaits the results from Apache County.

The governor’s race was called early as incumbent Doug Ducey took a huge lead over Democratic challenger David Garcia, 58 percent to 40 percent.

With no incumbent in the secretary of state race, Republican Steve Gaynor has a lead over Democrat Katie Hobbs, 51 percent to 49 percent. Incumbent Attorney General Mark Brnovich was also easily holding off Democrat January Contreras 53 percent to 47 percent, and Republican Kimberly Yee had an easy 56 percent to 44 percent lead over Democrat Mark Manoil in the race for treasurer.

But the race for superintendent of public instruction remains too close to call. Republican Frank Riggs leads Democrat Kathy Hoffman by just 10,508 votes, or 50.3 percent to 49.7 percent.

The Republicans are leading the Democrats in the race for two seats on the Arizona Corporation Commission. Incumbent Republican Justin Olson is the favorite with 756,000, and fellow Republican Rodney Glassman carries at least 29,440 votes more than the top Democrat, Sandra Kennedy.

Early Election Results: GOP leads in local, legislative races

by Staff Reports - Nov 6, 2018

With just 15 percent of precincts reporting statewide, state Rep. Vince Leach has a sizeable lead in his first attempt at the state Senate in District 11. He leads Democrat Ralph Atchue by more than 5,000 votes.

District 11 is in parts of Pinal and Pima counties. Only 11 percent of Pinal precincts have reported and only early ballots have been counted for Pima.

That being said, Republicans have opened a gap over Democrats in the District 11 House race. Incumbent Mark Finchem and Constable Bret Roberts both have more than 27,000 votes while Democrats Hollace Lyon and Marcela Quiroz trail with 22,500 and 21,300, respectively.

Also in early results, the District 4 constable race is leaning heavily Republican in the bid to replace Roberts, with Glenn Morrison outpacing Democrat Andre LaFond 58 percent to 42 percent.

Other local and county races were noncompetitive. Republican Lyle Riggs remains justice of the peace with no competition. Republican Amanda Stanford also had a walkover for re-election as clerk of the Superior Court for Pinal County.

Injuries reported in 3-vehicle crash

by Staff Reports - Nov 6, 2018

A three-vehicle collision injured motorists and stopped traffic on Smith-Enke Road Tuesday night.

None of the injuries was life-threatening.

The collision occurred after 8 p.m. between the intersections of Porter Road and DR Horton Drive. One vehicle reportedly swerved into oncoming traffic.

A second traffic incident occurred around the same time at the intersection of John Wayne Parkway and Edison Road when a vehicle went into a ditch. No injuries were reported.

1 man sentenced in Miller murder, 1 still waits

by Staff Reports - Nov 5, 2018

Olivo, Gustavo — Gustovo Olivo, 19, was sentenced to 25 years behind bars. PCSO photo

Travis Miller and Maxine Linette Medlock spoke emotionally of the dreams they had for their son Wyatt Miller in court Monday.

Gustavo Olivo, 19, was sentenced to 25 years in prison and seven years probation for his part in Wyatt’s death two years ago. The sentencing by Judge Kevin White came after a plea deal in Pinal County Superior Court.

Travis Miller placed a photo of his son on the counsel table for White to see because “I wanted to put a face on the victim.”

Wyatt Miller was 20 years old when he was killed Nov. 7, 2016. “I had plans, I had goals, I had dreams that included my two sons,” Travis Miller said.

Olivo, wearing an orange PCSO sweatshirt, mainly stared ahead or at the floor as the father spoke.

“I think you are an evil, selfish coward,” Miller told him.

Olivo and Arthur Magana, 18, are accused of planning the murder that involved shooting Wyatt 11 times. Magana has a hearing set for Wednesday before the same judge.

“It is so devastating and heartbreaking to lose a child,” Medlock said.

Miller said the family is getting a little bit of justice with the sentence of Olivo and hopes for more in the case against Magana.

“This is only a part of the nightmare,” he said.

In his plea, Olivo admitted to planning and participating in the murder of Wyatt Miller but said Magana was the gunman. The seven years of probation is attached to the second charge of armed robbery. Travis Miller said Olivo could have stopped the murder at any time but did not.

Miller said he hopes Olivo takes advantage of the programs in “big boy prison” and comes out a better man. He said the last thing society needs is another uneducated felon back in the community.

Judge White said though he considered Olivo’s age of 17 at the time of the murder and his remorse in his sentencing, it was not enough to override the aggravating factors or harm done to the family. White noted the investigation report that stated the defendants laughed after Wyatt was shot in the back of the head.

The night Wyatt was killed, the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of shots fired at around 7:30 p.m. on West Cardinal Road in an unincorporated area south of Maricopa. Wyatt Miller was soon found dead in a Chevy truck. Money and other property had been taken. Deputies followed two sets of footprints to a home on South Oak Road, where the teens were arrested. They were indicted Nov. 16.

In early court hearings, Olivo and Magana appeared together, but their cases were severed in April this year. Olivo’s extended family members were in court as were several members of Wyatt Miller’s family to hear Wyatt’s parents.

“He was fixing to move to Texas,” Medlock said of her son. “He had goals and things he wanted to make changes on. So much has been taken away from our family.”

Blue skies predicted all week in Maricopa

by Staff Reports - Nov 5, 2018

wth_110518_hendrickson — Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

Don’t expect clouds anytime soon in Maricopa. According to the National Weather Service, this week will see clear skies, calm winds and mild temperatures.

Today will be sunny with a high near 83 degrees F. The overnight low will be around 54.

Tuesday is expected to be sunny with a high near 84. The nighttime low will be around 54.

Wednesday is also a near duplicate, with sunny skies and a high of 81 followed by a clear night with a low around 54.

Thursday will likely be sunny with a high near 80. The overnight low will be around 50.

Friday is expected to be even cooler with a high near 77 under sunny skies. The nighttime low will be around 49.

That leads into a Veterans Day weekend that is forecast to have lots of sun but also the possibility of clouds.

Maricopa Police Department Crime Reports

by Staff Reports - Nov 4, 2018

Sept. 30-Oct. 6, 2018

Sept. 23-29, 2018

Sept. 2-8, 2018

Aug. 26-Sept. 1, 2018

***

Nov. 27- Dec. 03, 2017

Nov. 20-26, 2017

Nov. 13-19, 2017

Nov. 06-12, 2017

Oct. 30- Nov. 5, 2017

Sept. 24 – Oct. 01, 2017

Sept. 18-23, 2017

Sept. 11-17, 2017

Sept. 4-10, 2017

Aug. 28-Sept. 3, 2017

March 26-April 1, 2017

March 19-25, 2017

March 12-18, 2017

March 5-11, 2017

Feb. 26-March 4, 2017

Sept. 25-Oct. 1, 2016

Sept. 18-24, 2016

Sept. 11-17, 2016

Sept. 4-10, 2016

Aug. 28-Sept. 3, 2016

March 27-April 2, 2016

March 20-26, 2016

March 13-19, 2016

March 6-12, 2016

Feb. 28-March 5, 2016

Dec. 27, 2015-Jan. 3, 2016

Sept. 27-Oct. 3, 2015

Sept. 20-26, 2015

Sept. 13-19, 2015

Sept. 6-12, 2015

Aug. 30-Sept. 5, 2015

Aug. 23-29, 2015

Aug. 16-22, 2015

Beer-theft suspect in hit-and-run

by Staff Reports - Oct 30, 2018

Narcia Aaron — Aaron Narcia (PCSO photo)

A Maricopa man was arrested on charges of shoplifting Oct. 23 from the Circle K located at the northeast corner North John Wayne Parkway and West Bowlin Road.

At 4:31 p.m. Maricopa Police received a call that a man had taken two 18-packs of Budweiser beer from the walk-in cold storage before exiting the store without paying. The man was described as a “Native American male in his early 30s wearing blue shorts and dark blue shirt.”

When officers responded, they viewed video surveillance of the incident from which they were able to obtain the license plate number of a black Chevy Impala the suspect entered.

A vehicle matching that description with an identical license plate number was involved in a hit-and-run accident north of the Circle K at 5:17 p.m. The vehicle was located near North John Wayne Parkway and Smith Enke Road. Aaron Narcia was the only person in the vehicle.

The two 18-packs were not located, though Narcia was identified as the man in the video. He faces a charge of shoplifting.

Narcia was released on his own recognizance by Judge Henry Gooday Jr. on Oct. 24.

Mild temperatures forecast this week, cooler for Halloween

by Staff Reports - Oct 29, 2018

WTH_102918_Hendrickson — Mostly sunny skies are ahead for Halloween and a busy weekend. Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

A balmy week with temperatures in the 70s and 80s lies ahead for Maricopa, according to the National Weather Service.

Today is mostly sunny with a high near 87 degrees F. The night will be partly cloudy with a low around 60.

Tuesday, expect mostly sunny skies and a high near 87 during the day and breezes increasing to 10 mph in the afternoon. The overnight low is expected to be around 54.

Wednesday’s forecast is for sunny and calm with a high near 79. Halloween Night will be the coolest of the week with a prediction of mostly clear skies and a low of 47.

Thursday, too, has a sunny forecast and a high near 79. The nighttime low is predicted to be around 52 under mostly clear skies.

Friday’s forecast has sunny skies and a high near 82 followed by a mostly clear night with a low around 54.

The weekend, from this distance, looks to be sunny, a boon for those participating in the many activities planned in Maricopa.

What’s happening this week in Maricopa

by Staff Reports - Oct 28, 2018

This week in Maricopa, activities include Halloween fun, theater, music, arts and crafts, the conclusion of the Mud Run and the annual Relay for Life. For details on these and other events, or to add your own, visit InMaricopa.com/Calendar.

MONDAY

Seniors play Pinochle at 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Senior Bowling is at 10 a.m. UltraStar Multi-tainment Center, 16000 N. Maricopa Road.

Narcotics Anonymous meets at 7 p.m. at Maricopa Community Church, 44977 W. Hathaway Ave.

Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) meet at 7 p.m. at Maricopa Behavioral Health Services, 21300 N. John Wayne Parkway, Suite 103.

TUESDAY

Seniors play Pinochle at 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Celebrate Recovery Coffee & Karaoke is at 5 p.m. at Maricopa Community Church, 44977 W. Hathaway Ave.

Superhero Math Night is at 5 p.m. at Pima Butte Elementary School, 42202 W. Rancho El Dorado Parkway.

Fall Festival is at 5:30 p.m. at Maricopa Elementary School, 18150 N. Alterra Pkwy.

WEDNESDAY

Creative Sisterhood is at 9 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Babytime is at 9:30 a.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Halloween Parade and Sabrina the Scarecrow are at 10 a.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Harrah’s Club 777 Toastmasters meet at 3 p.m. at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 15406 Maricopa Road.

S.M.A.R.T. Kids meet at 3:30 p.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Maricopa Police Explorer Post Meeting is at 5 p.m. at Maricopa High School, 45012 W. Honeycutt Ave.

Halloween

THURSDAY

Seniors play Pinochle at 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Seniors play Farkel at 9 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Seniors play Canasta at 1 p.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Family Story Time is at 4 p.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

A Ray of Hope meeting of Narcotics Anonymous is at 7 p.m. at Ak-Chin Social Services, 48227 W. Farrell Road.

FRIDAY

Seniors play Pinochle at 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Treats for Troops is 3-6 p.m. at the office of Dr. Karen Kramarczyk, 44870 W. Hathaway Ave.

8-Bits Video Gaming is at 4 p.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Strength & Hope Al-Anon Meeting is at 7 p.m. at Community of Hope Church, 45295 W. Honeycutt Ave.

FRIDAY-SATURDAY

“Absurdity” is at 7 p.m. at Sequoia Pathway Academy, 19287 N Porter Road.

SATURDAY

Yard Sale for Against Abuse Women’s Shelter is at 8 a.m. at 40050 Santi Road.

Province Arts & Crafts Fair is at 9 a.m. at Province Town Hall, 20942 Province Parkway.

Relay for Life Maricopa is at 10 a.m. at Copper Sky Regional Park, 55345 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Maricopa Mud Run Part 2 is at 10 a.m. at Copper Sky Regional Park, 55345 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Baseball Camp Under the Lights is at 5 p.m. at Copper Sky Regional Park, 55345 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

SUNDAY

Autumn Musicale is at 3 p.m. at 43356 W. Courtney Drive.

Narcotics Anonymous is at 7 p.m. at Maricopa Community Church, 44977 W. Hathaway Ave.

Weekend weather to be mild, sunny

by Staff Reports - Oct 25, 2018

WTH_102518_hendrickson — Streets in Homestead South are busy with home construction under clear skies. Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

This weekend’s forecast is the kind of weather that brings snowbirds to Maricopa from the cold country with mild temperatures and lots of sun.

Today is sunny with a high near 78 degrees F, to be followed with a clear night and a low around 63.

Friday will not be as warm as originally forecast, with a high of just 84 and an overnight low of 65 under clear skies.

Saturday‘s forecast sees sunny skies and a high near 85. The night will be mostly clear with a low around 65.

Sunday is predicted to be mostly sunny with a high near 82. The night will likely be partly cloudy with a low around 63.

That leads into a workweek that is expected to be mostly sunny with highs in the 70s.

Pinal County Shelter over-capacity, offering specials dogs and cats

by Staff Reports - Oct 23, 2018

lucky — Lucky is one of the many dogs at the Pinal County animal shelter.

The Pinal County Animal Care and Control (PCACC) shelter is filled to capacity.

The problem is so severe PCACC may have to begin euthanizing some dogs that are classified as not animal-friendly (those dogs that would do well as only pets in a home).

“These dogs have been classified as being friendly toward humans, but have aggression issues toward other animals,” said PCACC Director Audra Michael. “Some have been at the shelter for almost a year. Their situation is deteriorating quickly the longer they stay in the kennels. People don’t understand they are really great out of the kennel but are crazy when they are in their kennel. They need a home.”

The shelter has 152 kennels at the facility and now has over 320 dogs on site. PCACC also took in over 55 cats yesterday from a hoarder and now has over 150 cats.

All dog adoptions right now are $30 plus $15 for license and all cats are $10. These adoption specials will last until the end of the month.

The Pinal County Animal Care and Control Shelter is open Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday and Wednesday 8 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Adoptable dogs and cats can be found at Petharbor.com.

https://goo.gl/G9iYUg
Facebook @pinalcountyanimalcontrol

Meadows starter home least expensive house last month

Real Estate

by Staff Reports - Oct 22, 2018

HOME-least expensive-oct — Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

The least expensive home sold in Maricopa Aug. 16-Sept. 15 was a 13-year-old starter home in Maricopa Meadows. The home lost nearly 25 percent of its value since the last time it sold in 2005. Newly carpeted and painted inside, the home served as a rental.

46108 W. Long Way, Maricopa Meadows

Sold: Sept. 14
Purchase price: $155,000
Square footage: 1,447
Price per square foot: $107.11
Days on market: 39
Builder: Elite
Year built: 2005
Bedrooms: 4
Bathrooms: 2
Community: Maricopa Meadows
Features: New tile in kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room, new toilets, lots of ceiling fans, dual-pane windows, sheltered entry, two-car garage.
Listing Agent: Mary Almaguer, Apache Gold Realty
Selling Agent: Charles D. Powell, Realty Executives Tucson Elite

45638 W. Amsterdam Road, Maricopa Meadows ………..$165,000
42466 W. Hillman Drive, Rancho El Dorado ………………….$168,000
44773 W. Portabello Road, Acacia Crossings ………………..$169,000
41293 W. Capistrano Drive, Glennwilde ……………………….$170,000

This item appears in the October issue of InMaricopa.

3 eateries marked by health inspector

by Staff Reports - Oct 22, 2018

Out of 20 Maricopa food establishments inspected by Pinal County’s health department Aug. 16-Sept. 15, all but three received perfect scores.

Neighboring eateries Yogurt Jungle and Say Sushi were inspected the same day, and both had a cold-holding issue. Yogurt Jungle reportedly had pistachio yogurt measured at 45 degrees instead of the required 41 degrees or below.

Say Sushi had a prep table that was not keeping food at 41 degrees or below. Food items were measured with temperatures between 56 and 60 degrees. A tray of ice was holding food at the correct temperature but was not approved refrigeration equipment. Items were placed in a walk-in unit. The inspector also noted teriyaki sauce at 119 degrees when it should have been no less than 135. The restaurant was also dinged for a shortage of date markings and a rice acidification log not being maintained.

Denny’s also had a cold-holding issue on the day of inspection. Some food items in the prep table were at 44 to 47 degrees instead of 41 and were rearranged to allow for better air flow. Liquid eggs were discarded.

Excellent [No violations found]
Butterfield Elementary
CAC – Culinary
Children’s Learning Adventure
Desert Wind Middle School
Francisco’s Mexican Food
Leading Edge Academy
Legacy Traditional School
Li’s Garden
Maricopa Head Start
Maricopa High School – Concessions
Maricopa High School – Culinary
Pima Butte Elementary
Saddleback Elementary
Santa Rosa Elementary
Sequoia Pathway Academy K-6
Sequoia Pathway Academy – Secondary
True Grit Tavern

Satisfactory [Violations corrected during inspection]
Denny’s
Say Sushi
Yogurt Jungle

Needs improvement [Critical items noted during inspection cannot be corrected immediately requiring follow-up inspection]
No

Unacceptable [Gross, unsanitary conditions necessitating the discontinuation of service]
None

Commercial activities, in brief

by Staff Reports - Oct 22, 2018

BIZ-briefs-IHOP — Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

Mountain Trace Development received the recommendation of Maricopa Planning & Zoning Commission for a rezoning of 5.83 acres from light industrial to general mixed use. The company, which has 14 apartment complexes in Arizona and 60 more in Illinois and Indiana, is planning multi-family housing at the site of Oasis at the Wells, between Walmart and Banner Health on Porter Road.

IHOP received a permit to build a new commercial building at Edison Pointe. It is planned for 4,767 square feet, to be constructed by Straightline Builders Inc., and valued at $628,000. The project was also granted a variance for its setback on the property at the northeast corner of John Wayne Parkway and Edison Road.

Empty business suites at Maricopa Fiesta continue to undergo modifications. Suite D8 is being modified into an open white-shell, and suite D4B is being separated into an independent suite to be renovated into a white-shell, tenant-ready suite. East Valley Cardiology received a business license for a suite in Maricopa Fiesta.

The former Zoyo Yogurt shop is changing into a Rosati’s Pizza at 21423 N. John Wayne Parkway. Contractor Imagine Builders received a permit to demolish the current interior. The remodeling project is valued at $150,000.

DRH Construction received a permit for a sales/construction office a 36894 W. Maddaloni Ave. as well as permits for a welcome sign and attention flags. Treasured Smiles Children’s Dentistry, 21300 N. John Wayne Parkway, was also given the OK for monument signs.

KB Home was given a temporary use permit for a model home complex at 18198 N. Christopher Drive.

This item appears in the October issue of InMaricopa.

New business licenses approved last month

by Staff Reports - Oct 22, 2018

The following organizations received new or renewed business licenses from the City of Maricopa from Aug. 16 to Sept. 15.

Commercial: Arby’s, Bounce Back Nutrition, Chi-Town Barber Shop, East Valley Cardiology LTD, KFC/LJS, Tacos N More

Home-based: A&P House Cleaning LLC, All American Girl Painting, Avasu LLC, AZ Property Doctors LLC, Cat’s Meow Design, Catering Your Way, Dutchman Home Inspections LLC, La Flying Dacha LLC, Liften High Garage Door Repair, Onsite Mobile, Rikkisparkles, Simply Elegant Fashions and Gifts, The Sew Suite, With Love Signed Nikki

Out of town: Ace Home Services, Arizona Hardwood Floor Supply, Cochise Contractors, Coin & Professional Equipment, Ellison Mills Contracting, Freedom Forever Arizona LLC, JS Waltz Construction, Photovoltaic Systems, Resilient Drilling Services, Rox Media Group, Softinc, Summit Fire Protection Co., Waffle Crush & Sweet Thangs Bakery & Café

Nonprofit: Copa Force One Inc.

This item appears in the October issue of InMaricopa.

After chance of rain, Maricopa weather to warm up again

by Staff Reports - Oct 22, 2018

wth_102218_hendrickson — Clouds were moving out Monday morning but are expected to return Tuesday.

After a cloudy start, Maricopa’s weather is expected to turn sunny for most of the week as temperatures climb back toward the 90s, according to the National Weather Service.

Today will be mostly sunny with a high near 86 degrees F. However, the night will be mostly cloudy to prep for possible rain Tuesday and the low will be around 64.

Tuesday, there is a 20 percent chance of showers, but the day will be partly sunny overall with a high near 86. The possibility for rain will be 10 percent before 11 p.m., then mostly clear with a low around 61.

Wednesday is expected to be sunny with a high near 85. The nighttime low will be around 60 as the skies stay mostly clear.

Thursday also has a sunny forecast with a high near 85. The night is expected to be clear with a low around 58.

Friday‘s forecast is for sunny with a high near 87. The nighttime low will be around 58 under clear skies.

That leads to a weekend of rising temperatures and sunny skies.

Dust storm warning in effect

by Staff Reports - Oct 21, 2018

The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a dust storm warning for Pinal County until 5 p.m. A wall of dust was spotted extending from southeast of Coolidge Airport to Toltec and moving north at 20 mph.

The dust storm has less than a quarter mile visibility with winds over 60 mph. Affected highways include Interstate 10, Interstate 8 and U.S. 60. Maricopa is expected to be among cities impacted.

Avoid driving in dust storms if possible. If caught in one, pull off the road, turn off your lights and keep your
foot off the brake.

Strong to severe thunderstorms are also possible behind this wall of dust. Keep updated with this quickly evolving situation.

FBI arrests man suspected of being ‘Wiggin’ Out Bandit’ in Maricopa

by Staff Reports - Oct 19, 2018

Raymar Arthur, 31, believed to be the “Wiggin’ Out Bandit,” was taken into custody by the FBI without incident at his home in Maricopa. He is charged with 10 bank robberies and three attempted bank robberies, which occurred between March 27 and Oct. 4 this year.

Maricopa Police Department helped close down a street in Rancho El Dorado during the activity.

The nickname, “Wiggin’ Out Bandit,” came from the various wigs that were worn during the bank robberies. At least one bank was targeted twice. The robberies averaged about one a month until a spree in August hit Chandler, Mesa and Queen Creek.

During the robberies, the suspect verbally demanded money or presented tellers with a demand note, then fled on foot with an undisclosed amount of money. No one was physically injured.

The FBI believes Arthur is responsible for the following robberies and/or attempted robberies:

March 27, at approximately 5:55 p.m., at the Chase Bank, 1021 N. Ellsworth Road in Mesa.

April 11, at approximately 4:14 p.m., at the Wells Fargo, 1951 W. Baseline Road in Mesa.

May 11, at approximately 6:53 p.m., at the MidFirst Bank, 4750 E. Chandler Blvd. in Phoenix.

June 1, at approximately 6:11 p.m., at the Wells Fargo, 1951 W. Baseline Road in Mesa.

June 25, at approximately 6:01 p.m., at the US Bank, 3185 W. Apache Trail in Apache Junction.

July 16, at approximately 5:51 p.m., at the Wells Fargo bank, 339 E. Brown Road in Mesa.

Aug. 1, at approximately 7:02 p.m., at the Wells Fargo bank, 4970 S. Alma School Road in Chandler.

Aug. 2, at approximately 7:02 p.m., at the US Bank, 1960 W. Main St. in Mesa.

Aug. 16, at approximately 2:46 p.m., at the Wells Fargo bank, 339 E. Brown Road in Mesa.

Aug. 22, at approximately 7:00 p.m., at the Wells Fargo, 1122 N. Higley Road in Mesa.

Aug. 23, at approximately 5:55 p.m., at the US Bank, 18495 E. Queen Creek Road in Queen Creek.

Aug. 23, at approximately 6:30 p.m., at the Wells Fargo bank, 155 W. Combs Road in Queen Creek.

Oct. 4, at approximately 6:54 p.m., at the US Bank located at 1960 West Main Street in Mesa.

Surveillance photos of “Wiggin’ Out Bandit”

An anonymous tip from the public ultimately led to the identification of the suspect.

The day of his arrest, Arthur had a disposition in Maricopa Municipal Court on two charges in a DUI drug case from April. One charge was dismissed while he pleaded guilty to the second with incarceration ordered along with fines of more than $1,500.

Weekend forecast mostly sunny but could bring raindrops

by Staff Reports - Oct 18, 2018

wth_101818_hendrickson — Fair weather is forecast for the weekend. Photo by Raquel Hendrickson

Only a slight chance for rain is now predicted for the weekend as October settles into mild temperatures and mostly sunny days, according to the National Weather Service.

Friday is expected to cloud-free, with a sunny forecast and a high near 86 degrees F. The overnight low will be around 64 under partly cloudy skies.

Saturday comes with a 10-percent chance of rain before 11 a.m. Otherwise, the day will be mostly sunny with high near 89. There is 20-percent chance for rain overnight when the low drops to around 65.

Sunday has a 20-percent chance for precipitation, with thunderstorms possible after 11 a.m. The day will be mostly sunny with a high near 86. The chance for rain is 10 percent overnight, with a low temperature around 62.

From this point, next week looks to be in the low 80s with lots of sun.

Gila River partners with MAG, ADOT for I-10 study

by Staff Reports - Oct 17, 2018

I-10 sacaton — Intestate 10 near Casa Blanca exchange.

A newly approved study will examine potential capacity and other upgrades to Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Casa Grande.

The study will be led by the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), in partnership with Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) and Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). The I-10 evaluation is expected to take about 18 months to complete, including an expected cost and phasing strategy.

Recently, the Gila River Indian Community Council agreed to participate in the study, which will establish an overall master plan for the corridor.

“The Gila River Indian Community is very appreciative of MAG for spearheading this effort, and we look forward to being part of the team that completes this study,” said GRIC Gov. Stephen R. Lewis. “The Community believes this study will help ensure the safety of the Community’s members and residents of the surrounding municipalities as they travel the I-10 corridor and promote development both on and off the Gila River Indian Reservation.”

The goal is to identify major elements that will need to be improved or replaced and determine how to provide the necessary capacity to meet current and future travel demand. The bridge across the Gila River and the interchange at Casa Blanca Road are two examples of existing structures that may have to be replaced.

“As ADOT has made significant investments through the years to increase I-10 capacity between the state’s two largest metropolitan areas, our plans for the 23 miles across the Gila River Indian Community have always recognized the sovereign tribal authority over this area,” said ADOT Director John Halikowski.

MAG has allocated about $65.5 million for improvements to the portion of I-10 in Maricopa County.

The I-10 study will be coordinated with a study being conducted by MAG in partnership with GRIC for State Route 347, which connects the City of Maricopa to I-10 across the Gila River Indian Community. MAG serves the metropolitan Phoenix area, including the City of Maricopa.

MAG Chair Gail Barney, mayor of Queen Creek, said GRIC input would be an important part of the I-10 study. The economic development activities being pursued by the Wild Horse Pass Development Authority in the northern section of GRIC will be considered in the study.

MHS football ‘warned’ by AIA after Homecoming scuffle

by Staff Reports - Oct 16, 2018

The other shoe finally dropped.

The football programs of Maricopa and Central high schools were given an official warning by the Arizona Interscholastic Association at a Monday board meeting, the result of an altercation between the head coaches after the Sept. 14 game.

The violations were self-reported.

Central reported its own coach, Jon Clanton, was the aggressor in the Homecoming night incident. The report stated Clanton pulled Maricopa head coach Brandon Harris into him during the post-game handshakes and yelled expletives at him after the Rams won 55-0. He then knocked off Harris’ visor as the Maricopa coach verbally engaged with him.

Clanton was placed on administrative leave, where he has remained.

As for Maricopa, it reported the situation was quickly put under control by the actions of students, assistant coaches and administrators. The school suspended Harris for one game.

According to AIA bylaws, a warning “places a school in jeopardy in that further violation of any rules or regulations may result in probation.”

At the same AIA board meeting, the MHS volleyball program was given “advisement” after it played a transfer student who had not sat out 50 percent of the season. Advisement is a word of caution.

Sunny days mix with rain in Maricopa forecast

by Staff Reports - Oct 15, 2018

wth_101518_hendrickson — White & Parker.

Mostly sunny days are ahead for Maricopa, according to the National Weather Service, but more wet weather may be just around the corner.

Today, there is still a 10-percent chance of showers in the afternoon, but the day remains mostly sunny with a high near 77 degrees F. After 11 p.m., the chance for rain increases to 60 percent, with precipitation up to a 10th of an inch, as the temperature drops to around 54.

Tuesday, thunderstorms are possible after 11 a.m., with a 30-percent chance. The day is forecast to be partly sunny with a high near 70. The night will be mostly clear with a low around 52.

Wednesday is likely to be sunny with a high near 77. The nighttime low may be around 54 under mostly clear skies.

Thursday also has a sunny forecast with a high near 79. The night will be mostly clear with a low around 57.

Friday, expect another sunny day with a high climbing to 84. The overnight low may be around 61 as the skies stay mostly clear.

But possibilities for rain return for the weekend, though the daytime temperatures are expected to stay in the 80s.

What’s happening this week in Maricopa (VIDEO)

by Staff Reports - Oct 14, 2018

The annual Maricopa photo contest, a special documentary screening, a book sale and fly-in are all part of the many activities this week in Maricopa. For details on these events, or to add your own, visit InMaricopa.com/Calendar.

MONDAY

Shutter Shots Photo Contest is midnight to midnight all over town to celebrate the anniversary of the city’s incorporation.

Seniors play Pinochle at 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Kids Bilingual Story Time is at 9 a.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Senior Bowling is at 10 a.m. at UltraStar Multi-tainment Center, 16000 N. Maricopa Road.

“Underwater Dreams” documentary is at 3 p.m. at Central Arizona College – Maricopa Campus, 17945 N. Regent Drive.

Narcotics Anonymous is at 7 p.m. at Maricopa Community Church, 44977 W. Hathaway Ave.

Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) meet at 7 p.m. at Maricopa Behavioral Health Services, 21300 N. John Wayne Parkway, Suite 103.

Maricopa Healing Rooms are at 7 p.m. at Maricopa Healing Ministry, 19997 N. Justin Drive.

TUESDAY

Seniors play Pinochle at 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Kids Bilingual Story Time is at 9 a.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Seniors play Canasta at 1 p.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Celebrate Recovery Coffee & Karaoke is at 5 p.m. at Maricopa Community Church, 44977 W. Hathaway Ave.

A Joint Meeting of City Council/MUSD Governing Board is at 5:30 p.m. at Maricopa City Hall, 39700 W. Civic Center Plaza.

City Council Regular Meeting is at 7 p.m. at Maricopa City Hall, 39700 W. Civic Center Plaza.

WEDNESDAY

Creative Sisterhood meets at 9 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

COMET Bus Shelter Unveiling is at 9 a.m. at Central Arizona College – Maricopa Campus, 17945 N. Regent Drive.

Babytime is at 9:30 a.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Harrah’s Club 777 Toastmasters meet at 3 p.m. Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino, 15406 Maricopa Road.

S.M.A.R.T. Kids meet at 3:30 p.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Maricopa Police Explorer Post Meeting is at 5 p.m. at Maricopa High School, 45012 W. Honeycutt Ave.

MUSD Governing Board meets at 6:30 p.m. at Maricopa Unified School District, 44150 W. Maricopa-Casa Grande Hwy.

Business Speed Networking is at 6:30 p.m. at Maricopa City Hall, 39700 W. Civic Center Plaza.

THURSDAY

Seniors play Pinochle at 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Seniors play Farkel at 9 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Seniors play Canasta at 1 p.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

Family Story Time is at 4 p.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Zonta Club of Maricopa meets at 5:30 p.m. at Honeycutt Coffee, 44400 W. Honeycutt Road, Suite 109.

Maricopa Healing Rooms are at 6:30 p.m. at Maricopa Healing Ministry, 19997 N. Justin Drive.

A Ray of Hope meeting of Narcotics Anonymous is at 7 p.m. at Ak-Chin Social Services, 48227 W. Farrell Road.

FRIDAY

Seniors play Pinochle at 8:30 a.m. at Santa Cruz Elementary School, 19845 N. Costa del Sol Blvd.

8-Bits Video Gaming is at 4 p.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road.

Strength & Hope Al-Anon Meeting is at 7 p.m. at Community of Hope Church, 45295 W. Honeycutt Ave.

SATURDAY

Tortosa Community Garage Sale is 7 a.m.-1 p.m. around the Tortosa community.

Millar Airport Fall Fly-in with free breakfast is at 7:30 a.m. at Millar Airport, 53510 W. McDavid Road.

Friends of the Maricopa Public Library Book Sale is 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Maricopa Public Library, 41600 W. Smith-Enke Road, Building 10.

SUNDAY

Narcotics Anonymous meets at 7 p.m. at Maricopa Community Church, 44977 W. Hathaway Ave.

12 3...16 Next

Page 1 of 16

Meta

Apex breaks ground on private racetrack after tumultuous year

Sunny days, cool nights ahead for Maricopa

Willow or not, this tree works in Maricopa

What’s happening this week in Maricopa (VIDEO)

Parade celebrates, thanks Maricopa veterans (GALLERY)

Staff Reports

As vote count winds up, Arizona looking more purple

Sunny days, cool nights ahead for Maricopa

Sinema, Hoffman pass GOP opponents in updated counts

Clear skies forecast for Veterans Day weekend

Recorded conversation between suspects center of pre-trail hearing for Miller murder case

Maricopa Home Sales

Pinal County Sheriff’s Office Crime Reports

Tight races for federal, state posts in early counting

Early Election Results: GOP leads in local, legislative races

Injuries reported in 3-vehicle crash

1 man sentenced in Miller murder, 1 still waits

Blue skies predicted all week in Maricopa

Maricopa Police Department Crime Reports

Beer-theft suspect in hit-and-run

Mild temperatures forecast this week, cooler for Halloween

What’s happening this week in Maricopa

Weekend weather to be mild, sunny

Pinal County Shelter over-capacity, offering specials dogs and cats

Meadows starter home least expensive house last month

3 eateries marked by health inspector

Commercial activities, in brief

New business licenses approved last month

After chance of rain, Maricopa weather to warm up again

Dust storm warning in effect

FBI arrests man suspected of being ‘Wiggin’ Out Bandit’ in Maricopa

Weekend forecast mostly sunny but could bring raindrops

Gila River partners with MAG, ADOT for I-10 study

MHS football ‘warned’ by AIA after Homecoming scuffle

Sunny days mix with rain in Maricopa forecast

What’s happening this week in Maricopa (VIDEO)