IN-DEPTH: Pima Community College Police officer faces criminal investigation from DPS | News

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A Pima County Community College Police Department employee is under criminal investigation, the Department of Public Safety has confirmed.

Sources tell the News 4 Tucson In-Depth team that it’s a high ranking member of the department.

A DPS spokesperson sent News 4 Tucson’s Chief Investigative Reporter Chorus Nylander the following information:

“I can confirm that the Pima County Community College District Police Department (PCCCDPD) requested the Arizona Department of Public Safety conduct a criminal investigation involving a PCCCDPD employee. During the investigation, violations of state statutes by the PCCCDPD employee were discovered.  Upon the conclusion of the investigation, criminal charging recommendations were forwarded to the Arizona Attorney’s General Office (AZAG) for consideration.  Any further questions regarding this incident should be directed to the AZAG or the PCCCDPD.” 

DPS would not confirm the identity or rank of the employee in question or the criminal activity they are suspected of.

The Attorney General’s Office confirmed it was handed the case but wouldn’t say anything further.

A spokesperson for PCC first told us that they were referring all media inquiries to DPS and the AG’s Office.

After we continued questioning them about the staffing impacts and status of the employee they wrote, “Pima Community College is not releasing the name or status of the employee or any report until the investigation has been completed by the Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.”

Several PCC students we spoke to told us they feel there should be more transparency so they can have an idea of the nature of the criminal allegations.

“That’s very worrisome, makes me not feel that safe. I think as students we deserve to have some transparency to know what they’re under investigation for,” said Tina Ambrose.

“I feel like we should know what’s going on exactly especially if he’s a cop for a school that we go to, it doesn’t have to be very descriptive but at least a good understanding of what’s going on,” said Angelina Datillo.

News 4 Tucson has made multiple records requests to try and get more information about the nature of the investigation, so far those requests have not been fulfilled.

We will update you as we learn more information.

 

 

 

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