The Oro Valley Police Department (OVPD) is a constant, sometimes unseen, presence in the community, working behind the scenes to ensure that life in Oro Valley runs smoothly.
While their efforts don't often make headlines, they tackle serious issues every day. Based on our review of Town Manager Wilkins’ “Executive Report to Council” reports for this year, we have identified five key areas where the department’s impact can be seen most clearly.
Tackling drug and violent crimes
OVPD conducts a wide range of criminal investigations, from drug busts to violent confrontations. In August, after a surveillance operation involving multiple teams, officers arrested a fugitive carrying illegal drugs, cash, and even brass knuckles. It wasn’t just a routine arrest—it was a precise effort that removed a dangerous individual from the streets. A month earlier, officers responded to a domestic violence incident that quickly escalated. The suspect not only fled the scene but caused two car crashes while trying to escape. OVPD was able to detain him, bringing the situation to a close before anyone else was harmed.
Responding swiftly to school threats
When threats target schools, quick action is essential to keeping students safe. In September, OVPD arrested a 15-year-old student after investigating a threat made against Canyon del Oro High School. The situation could have caused widespread panic, but the prompt response minimized disruption. Similarly, in May, officers evacuated the U of A School of Veterinary Medicine when an alarming phone call triggered concern. The evacuation was precautionary, but OVPD ensured the safety of students and staff, defusing the situation before any harm could occur.
Supporting federal arrests thru local operations
Sometimes, OVPD’s work extends beyond local matters, as they often assist federal agencies. In September, officers worked with U.S. Border Patrol to intercept a vehicle near a local school that was suspected of transporting undocumented individuals. The proximity to the school led to a brief lockdown, but the cooperation between agencies resulted in a successful outcome. Just a month earlier, OVPD teamed up with U.S. Marshalls to track down and arrest a fugitive. That effort helped bring another suspect, wanted for shooting a Pima County Sheriff’s Deputy, into custody.
Handling serious traffic incidents
What starts as a routine traffic stop can quickly escalate into something far more dangerous. In February, officers pulled over a vehicle for a basic violation, but what they found was far more serious—firearms and narcotics that the passenger had tried to discard during the stop. Another incident in March saw officers respond to a pedestrian being critically injured by a vehicle. Both cases are reminders that traffic-related incidents often involve split-second decisions and can carry significant consequences.
Proactively engaging the community
Not all of OVPD’s work happens in the field—some of their efforts focus on educating and empowering the community. In March, the department hosted a Fraud School, partnering with local organizations to help residents, particularly seniors, recognize and avoid common scams. Community engagement goes beyond events, too. In January, OVPD used social media to gather public help in locating a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run. With input from the community, officers were able to identify and arrest the suspect.
Working every day to make us safe
These examples highlight just a portion of the important work OVPD does on a daily basis. Their ability to respond to a wide range of issues—from public safety and criminal activity to community outreach—helps ensure Oro Valley remains not only a safe place to live but also one where residents can actively contribute to their own security.
Tackling drug and violent crimes
OVPD conducts a wide range of criminal investigations, from drug busts to violent confrontations. In August, after a surveillance operation involving multiple teams, officers arrested a fugitive carrying illegal drugs, cash, and even brass knuckles. It wasn’t just a routine arrest—it was a precise effort that removed a dangerous individual from the streets. A month earlier, officers responded to a domestic violence incident that quickly escalated. The suspect not only fled the scene but caused two car crashes while trying to escape. OVPD was able to detain him, bringing the situation to a close before anyone else was harmed.
When threats target schools, quick action is essential to keeping students safe. In September, OVPD arrested a 15-year-old student after investigating a threat made against Canyon del Oro High School. The situation could have caused widespread panic, but the prompt response minimized disruption. Similarly, in May, officers evacuated the U of A School of Veterinary Medicine when an alarming phone call triggered concern. The evacuation was precautionary, but OVPD ensured the safety of students and staff, defusing the situation before any harm could occur.
Supporting federal arrests thru local operations
Sometimes, OVPD’s work extends beyond local matters, as they often assist federal agencies. In September, officers worked with U.S. Border Patrol to intercept a vehicle near a local school that was suspected of transporting undocumented individuals. The proximity to the school led to a brief lockdown, but the cooperation between agencies resulted in a successful outcome. Just a month earlier, OVPD teamed up with U.S. Marshalls to track down and arrest a fugitive. That effort helped bring another suspect, wanted for shooting a Pima County Sheriff’s Deputy, into custody.
Handling serious traffic incidents
What starts as a routine traffic stop can quickly escalate into something far more dangerous. In February, officers pulled over a vehicle for a basic violation, but what they found was far more serious—firearms and narcotics that the passenger had tried to discard during the stop. Another incident in March saw officers respond to a pedestrian being critically injured by a vehicle. Both cases are reminders that traffic-related incidents often involve split-second decisions and can carry significant consequences.
Proactively engaging the community
Not all of OVPD’s work happens in the field—some of their efforts focus on educating and empowering the community. In March, the department hosted a Fraud School, partnering with local organizations to help residents, particularly seniors, recognize and avoid common scams. Community engagement goes beyond events, too. In January, OVPD used social media to gather public help in locating a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run. With input from the community, officers were able to identify and arrest the suspect.
Working every day to make us safe
These examples highlight just a portion of the important work OVPD does on a daily basis. Their ability to respond to a wide range of issues—from public safety and criminal activity to community outreach—helps ensure Oro Valley remains not only a safe place to live but also one where residents can actively contribute to their own security.
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