The Criminal Division prosecutes felonies committed by adults in Pima County, all offenses committed by people under 18 (juveniles) within the County, and misdemeanor offenses committed outside of city limits. The Mission of the Criminal Division is to promote public safety by:
The County Attorney is dedicated to the empowerment of victims; data-driven, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to problems; and meaningful collaboration with our community partners.
This unit investigates, prosecutes, and helps prevent various types of fraud, including wage theft, financial crimes, insurance & banking, environmental and housing, and even government and Medical fraud cases. PCAO will review your complaints (which you can submit by using the Consumer Fraud Complaint Form) in collaboration with other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to help protect your finances. The Fraud Unit is also available to help educate your organization or neighborhood association on how to avoid being a victim of fraud. Email fraud@pcao.pima.gov to arrange a presentation.
This unit prosecutes minors accused of criminal offenses. The offenses handled by the Juvenile Unit range from misdemeanor charges to serious felonies, including homicide, sex offenses, aggravated assaults, and possession of illegal drugs. The juvenile justice system is more geared towards rehabilitation and support of the juvenile accused, so less serious cases may be referred to a number of diversion programs, including Community Justice Boards. This unit also assists with uncontested adoptions. For more information about adoption services, click here. Juvenile prosecutors also work closely with the community by participating in numerous committees and with local schools by attending monthly meetings of the School Multi-Agency Response Team (S.M.A.R.T.).
If you are a reporter looking to gather general information for a story, on deadline or for background, email media@pcao.pima.gov or call Shawndrea Thomas, (520) 310-4720.