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Sheriff Paul Babeu holds strong lead in two polls

January 26, 2012 By 2 Comments

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 26, 2012
CONTACT: Chris DeRose

Gould, Gosar effectively tied

San Tan Valley – Two polls conducted in the past week show a commanding lead for Sheriff Paul Babeu in Arizona’s 4th Congressional District.

Public Opinion Strategies conducted a survey of likely voters for the Babeu campaign, to determine their choice for Congress. The results were as follows:

Paul Babeu – 31%
Paul Gosar – 23%
Ron Gould – 19%

Of those who “definitely” know their choice, Babeu has double the support of both Gould and Gosar.

Definitely Paul Babeu – 21%
Definitely Paul Gosar – 12%
Definitely Ron Gould – 10%

“Babeu is well positioned to win this race,” said Glen Bolger, founding partner of Public Opinion Strategies. Babeu has solid leads among “very conservative voters, Tea Party supporters, strong NRA supporters, and base Republicans,” said Bolger, whose memorandum on this poll can be downloaded here.

Gosar recently announced his candidacy in a district 50 miles from his house, abandoning a district with 70% of his current constituents, citing his “base” in Yavapai County. Bolger called his support there “underwhelming.”

Babeu strategist Chris DeRose said “If this is Gosar’s base, I’d hate to see the part of the district that doesn’t like him. Voters in this new district won’t like his liberal record any more than the one he’s running from.”

These findings dovetail an independent poll published in the Arizona Capitol Times Yellow Sheet. That poll recorded 29% for Babeu, 19% for Gosar, and 17% for Gould.

Public Opinion Strategies is the most trusted name in Republican polling. Founded in 1991, it counts as clients 80 members of the House of Representatives, 19 United States Senators, and 6 governors.

Download the Public Opinion Strategies poll results here.
Download the Yellow Sheet poll results here.

 

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Filed Under: Arizona Politics, Campaigns & Elections, Polls Tagged With: , , ,

Babeu raises $263,302 in 68 days from 1,100 donors

January 17, 2012 By 2 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 17, 2012
CONTACT: Chris DeRose

Has $235,072 cash on hand for Congressional campaign

San Tan Valley – Sheriff Paul Babeu today announced his fundraising totals for the first 68 days of his campaign for Congress, which included Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Eve and ended January 1st, 2012.

While in the exploratory phase, without a single fundraising event, and without a final Congressional district, Sheriff Babeu raised $263,302 from 1,100 donors. This represents an estimated 300 new donors. The Sheriff has over 8,000 unique donors, meaning a significant reservoir of support not yet tapped for the Congressional race.

“I’m absolutely blown away by the generosity of my supporters,” Babeu said. “People agree it’s time for a new Sheriff in Washington. I pledge to represent them with honor and integrity in the next Congress.”

Babeu officially announced his candidacy on January 4th.

Paul Babeu is America’s Sheriff of the Year, as voted by his colleagues in the National Sheriff’s Association. As Sheriff, he reduced his budget by 10% while decreasing response times to emergencies by 50%. As a police officer, he was awarded two medals for saving lives, and served as President of the Chandler Law Enforcement Association. A retired Major in the United States Army National Guard, he commanded Task Force Yuma, which reduced illegal border crossings by 94%, and served a tour of duty in Iraq. 

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Filed Under: Campaign Finance, Campaigns & Elections, Press Release Tagged With: ,

Arizona CD-4 & CD-1 Ruminations: Congressman Paul Gosar Moves, Gary Pierce vs. Bill Konopnicki?

January 8, 2012 By 6 Comments

Congressman Paul Gosar announced Saturday that he will be moving into the new congressional district 4 in order to seek “re-election” now that the final congressional lines appear to be headed for final approval. This puts Gosar smack dab in the middle of a real battle shaping up between State Senator Ron Gould and Pinal County Sheriff, Paul Babeu. Knowing the consultants behind these two candidates (Chris Baker and Chris DeRose, respectively), Gosar has his work cut out for him running against Gould, who has earned the highest ranking as an no-tax, small government conservative against Babeu, who has national name ID and a reputation for fighting illegal immigration and Mexican drug cartels.

Meanwhile in the new CD-1, former state representative and fast food magnate, Bill Konopnicki sent out these two tweets in the past week. One would surmise that he’s attempting to head off an entry into the CD-1 race by Arizona Corporation Commissioner, Gary Pierce who earned his reputation as a conservative willing to turn the lights out on Los Angeles. We’ll see if this shot across Pierce’s bow cause Pierce to puts all hands on deck.

Expect a handful of announcements and even resignations as the 2012 election officially kicks off this month!

This election season is about to get real exciting.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Sheriff Paul Babeu announces run for Congress

January 4, 2012 By 4 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 4, 2012
CONTACT: Chris DeRose

“It’s time for a new Sheriff in Washington,” says Babeu 

San Tan Valley — Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu today announced his candidacy for the United States House of Representatives, District 4.

“As a first responder, I’m trained to run toward dangers that others run away from. Right now, the biggest threats facing our country are from Washington. We have record debt and deficit spending, the biggest intergenerational theft in the history of the world. We have a system that punishes job creators and leaves many millions unemployed. We have an unsecured border that allows the drug cartels to operate freely in our country, and results in 400,000 illegal crossings into our state every year.

How have our leaders responded to these threats? This Congress approved the largest debt ceiling increase in American history. The administration transferred 2,000 high powered weapons to the most dangerous criminals in North America, punishing whistleblowers and rewarding those responsible for “Fast and Furious.” Then they sued Arizona for doing the job they won’t do. While Americans watch their savings disappear, we have credible allegations of insider trading by members of Congress.

It’s time for a new Sheriff in Washington. The American people are sounding a giant 911 call on Washington. And I’m responding.”

Paul Babeu is America’s Sheriff of the Year, as voted by his colleagues in the National Sheriff’s Association. As Sheriff, he reduced his budget by 10% while decreasing response times to emergencies by 50%. As a police officer, he was awarded two medals for saving lives, and served as President of the Chandler Law Enforcement Association. A retired Major in the United States Army National Guard, he commanded Task Force Yuma, which reduced illegal border crossings by 94%, and served a tour of duty in Iraq.

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Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Elected Officials, Press Release Tagged With: ,

AZ Family TV-3 Interviews Sheriff Paul Babeu on Possible Congressional Run

October 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu has announced the formation of an exploratory committee for Congressional District 4.

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Filed Under: 2nd Amendment, Campaigns & Elections, County Government, Elected Officials Tagged With: ,

Arizona Sheriff Babeu on Fast and Furious

October 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment
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Filed Under: 2nd Amendment, County Government, Crime and Punishment, Elected Officials, Federal Government, Media Tagged With:

Sheriff Paul Babeu opens Congressional exploratory committee

October 24, 2011 By 8 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 24, 2011
CONTACT: Chris DeRose

“The real deficit in Washington is one of leadership,” says Sheriff 

San Tan Valley — Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu today announced the formation of an exploratory committee for the United States Congress, District 4.

“I believe the real deficit in Washington is one of leadership,” Babeu explained. “Almost three years after the 800 billion dollar stimulus disaster, nearly one in ten Americans is unemployed. In some of our communities, that number is more than double. Meanwhile we have a 14 trillion dollar national debt, with budgets in the red as far as the eye can see.

Arizona is ground zero in the fight against drug and human smuggling. Rather than secure our border and enforce the law, what did we see from our Federal government? Signs in my county warning Americans to stay away, because the cartels were in control; a lawsuit against the people of Arizona; a declaration that the border is more secure than ever. Meanwhile, 400,000 people unlawfully enter our state every year, tens of thousands with criminal records, some from nations that sponsor terrorism.

Now we find that our own Federal government in operation Fast and Furious put 2,000 guns in the hands of the most dangerous criminals in North America. These guns have been found at the murder scene of Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry, and hundreds of crime scenes in Mexico.

It’s clear that Washington is broken. To fix it we’ll need leaders unafraid to make tough decisions, leaders more worried about the next generation than the next election.

I believe it may be time for a new Sheriff in Washington.”

The new committee will allow Sheriff Babeu to travel the district and measure support for a full-fledged Congressional run. A final decision is planned for early in the New Year.

Paul Babeu is America’s Sheriff of the Year, as voted by his colleagues in the National Sheriff’s Association. As Sheriff, he reduced his budget by 10% while decreasing response times to emergencies by 50%. As a police officer, he was awarded two medals for saving lives, and served as President of the Chandler Law Enforcement Association. A retired Major in the United States Army National Guard, he commanded Task Force Yuma, which reduced illegal border crossings by 94%, and served a tour of duty in Iraq.

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Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Elected Officials, Press Release Tagged With:

Sheriff Babeu endorses Wes Gullett for Mayor

October 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 7, 2011
CONTACT: Daniel Scarpinato

“Wes Gullett understands that the most sacred responsibility of city government is public safety.” 

PHOENIX – Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu, the national “Sheriff of the Year,” has endorsed Wes Gullett for Mayor, saying he’s the only candidate who will fight illegal immigration and enforce the rule of law.

“Wes Gullett understands that the most sacred responsibility of city government is public safety. He’ll work with us, not against us, to enforce the rule of law and fight illegal immigration, especially the organized crime that is fostered by human smuggling and the drug cartels,” Sheriff Babeu said.

“I’m honored to have the support of Sheriff Babeu. Pinal County is the leading pass-through for drug gangs and human smugglers into Phoenix. I look forward to partnering with him and other law enforcement officials to enforce our laws and keep Phoenix safe,” Gullett said.

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Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Elected Officials, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: , , , ,

Jim Waring Receives Endorsement of Sheriff Paul Babeu & Councilman Bill Gates

July 28, 2011 By 1 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 28, 2011
CONTACT: Jim Waring

Phoenix, AZ – Jim Waring, Republican Candidate for Phoenix City Council, proudly announced today that his campaign has been endorsed by Sheriff Paul Babeu and Phoenix City Councilman Bill Gates.

“Jim Waring has an unmatched record as a taxpayer watchdog and supporter of tough laws that have reduced drunk driving and domestic violence. As a veteran, I know that we’ve seldom had a better friend in public office than Jim Waring.” said Babeu. “Phoenix is by far the biggest city in Arizona. For our state to work, we desperately need Phoenix to work. I have worked hard to bring transparency and honest government to Pinal County, and wherever good candidates like Waring seek to do the same, they will have my support.”

Councilman Bill Gates had this to say, “Today I announced that I am endorsing Jim Waring for Phoenix City Council District 2. Jim has been a good friend for many years and will be a great ally to have at City Hall.”

“Sheriff Babeu and Councilman Gates are long time friends, and I am pleased to have received their endorsements. Councilman Gates and Sheriff Babeu are working hard to make the City of Phoenix and State of Arizona a better place. I look forward to working closely with Councilman Gates to make sure that we do what is right for the citizens of Phoenix,” said Waring.

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Jim Waring is the Republican candidate for Phoenix City Council in District 2. He previously served in the Arizona State Senate from 2003 – 2010, where he was named Champion of the Taxpayer for his efforts to reign in government spending and reduce waste. 

To learn more, visit JimWaring.com.

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Elected Officials, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: , , ,

Sheriff Babeu to endorse Waring, Gates for Phoenix City Council and Oppose DiCiccio Recall

July 28, 2011 By 5 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 28, 2011
CONTACT: Chris DeRose

Supports bringing fiscal sanity and transparency to City Hall

Sheriff Paul Babeu announced today that he will endorse Jim Waring in Council District 2 and the re-election of Councilman Bill Gates in Council District 3. “I’ve been privileged to know these two exemplary public officials for years. Bill Gates has been a tireless voice on the council for fiscal sanity and public safety. Jim Waring has an unmatched record as a taxpayer watchdog and supporter of tough laws that have reduced drunk driving and domestic violence. As a veteran, I know that we’ve seldom had a better friend in public office than Jim Waring.”

Sheriff Babeu will also announce his opposition to the recall of Councilman Sal Diciccio. “Nobody has done more than Sal Diciccio to shine a spotlight on the practices at City Hall. He has been targeted for favoring a government of, by, and for the people — not of, by, and for the insiders. All Arizonans have a vested interest in keeping him right where he is — asking the tough questions and demanding the public get answers.”

“Phoenix is by far the biggest city in Arizona. For our state to work, we desperately need Phoenix to work. I have worked hard to bring transparency and honest government to Pinal County, and wherever good candidates like Diciccio, Gates, and Waring seek to do the same, they will have my support.”

The endorsement will take place on Thursday, July 28th, at the Arizona State Capitol at noon. Press and members of the public are welcome.

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Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Conservatives, Elected Officials, Endorsements Tagged With: , , , ,

Sheriff Babeu: Mr. President – Protect America First

May 26, 2011 By 5 Comments

May 26, 2011

Sheriff Paul BabeuPresident Obama says the border is more secure than ever, declared the border fence complete and said, “these people will never be satisfied, until we build a moat and put alligators in the moat.” We don’t need a moat or alligators in Arizona – we simply need the federal government to do their job and secure the border!

Last year, 219,300 illegal immigrants were apprehended in just one sector of Arizona and many with violent felony criminal records. The US Border Patrol estimates another 400,000 made it safely past them in Arizona and now reside in your community.

If the majority of regular illegal immigrants can sneak into America, what does this say about the ability of terrorist sleeper cells? The porous US/Mexican border is the gravest national security threat facing America. This is no longer just a political fight to stop Barak Obama from giving amnesty to over 12 million illegals, it’s also about protecting our nation from terrorist threats. Thousands of illegal entrants hail from State Department countries of interest–Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, Somalia, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and others. In some cases, we have confirmed their troubling ties to terrorism. Yet for those we apprehend, how many today live amongst us?

If the border is secure, why did the feds post 15 Billboard signs in Pinal County warning American citizens; Danger – Public Warning – Travel Not Recommended, due to armed drug cartel smuggling? This is 70 miles into Arizona, where Homeland Security confirms that no fewer than 100 of our beautiful mountains have been repurposed as lookouts for the Mexican Drug lords.

America can secure the border if we replicate the success of what was accomplished in the Yuma Sector. The Yuma Sector has now attained a 96% reduction of illegal border crossings. The Senator McCain/Kyl 10-Point Border Security Plan is developed largely from the learned successes of the Yuma Sector during Operation Jump Start.

This plan calls for immediate deployment of 6,000 armed soldiers for a period of two years. While soldiers are deployed, the double barrier fence is completed with video surveillance, lighting, sensors and roads to support rapid deployment of US Border Patrol. Thirdly, fully enforce the law without any diversion option.

We need focus on the solution to secure our border, not on a path to citizenship or amnesty for 12 million. If President Obama were sincere, why did he not pass immigration reform in his first two years, when he had supermajorities in the House and Senate? Instead, in a purely politically and racially divisive manner, he says he’ll fight now when there is little hope of passage. The President has failed to fulfill his core constitutional duty to protect America.

President Obama led us to believe he would end the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. We’re no closer to leaving than when he made these false promises. He bombs Libya for humanitarian reasons and yet ignores the outcry of neighboring Mexico in their war against the drug cartels, which have claimed over 35,000 lives and nearly toppled their government. Mexico is America’s second largest trading partner and we share nearly 2,000 miles of porous border, which presents a far graver national security threat than anything we face in the middle east.

Mexico is not our enemy. The cartels are the enemy of Mexico and America. They have brought their violence here to America. Local Sheriffs can’t fight them alone. We can address this growing threat, or we can make jokes, laugh and believe the border is more secure than ever.

Respectfully,

Paul Babeu, Sheriff
Pinal County, Arizona
President, Arizona Sheriff’s Association
2011 National Sheriff of the Year

(Sheriff Babeu is also a retired Army Major and served as the Commanding Officer for Task Force Yuma)

 

 

 

Filed Under: Border, Crime and Punishment, Drugs, Guest Opinion, National Security Tagged With: ,

PCSO Participates in Multi Agency Tactical Detail

May 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 25, 2011
CONTACT:  Tim Gaffney

Florence, AZ - The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office Tactical Team attached with U.S. Border Patrol’s “BORTAC Team 5” has completed another operation to deny, degrade, disrupt and dismantle drug and human trafficking operations in Pinal County. The latest detail ran from May 11th – 13th and 18th – 20th. The operation was focused in the Vekol Valley area.

Participating in the detail were law enforcement members from the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, Yuma County Sheriff’s Office, Arizona Department of Public Safety, U.S. Border Patrol Tucson and Yuma Sectors, Bureau of Land Management, Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations, CBP Office of Air and Marine, Tohono O’odham Police Department, Gila River Police Department, Eloy Police Department, U.S. Attorney’s Office District of Arizona and the Arizona National Guard.

During the six day operation agencies combined arrested 60 suspects, the seizure of 5,433 pounds of marijuana, $115,630 in cash, and 4 firearms. In addition, 5 stolen vehicles were recovered, 7 suspects were prosecuted federally and 38 suspects were prosecuted at the state level. Below are some examples of the cases we were involved with.

May 11th at 1:40 a.m. a group of 12 people were spotted carrying backpacks believed to be containing Marijuana just south of Interstate 8. The group was followed to a location approximately 30 yards south of Interstate 8 where they stopped underneath some brush.

Pinal County SWAT and BORTAC Team 5 moved in and engaged the group. Part of the group was taken into custody under trees at that location along with 10 backpacks of marijuana. Several of the suspects fled south from that location and were captured with the assistance of air support. A total of 10 suspects were apprehended, along with a total of 10 marijuana backpacks (492 lbs), along with a solar charger and other electronic items used for counter surveillance. The suspects and marijuana were turned over to GIITEM for investigation and prosecution.

May 11th at 3:00 a.m. a passenger truck with a flatbed trailer was seen stopped on the south shoulder near milepost 154 on Interstate 8. The driver was observed acting suspiciously, and was observed taking an item from a parked semi trailer at that location and loading it onto his trailer. The truck with the trailer then got back on Interstate 8 and began to travel eastbound. A traffic stop was conducted on the truck on Interstate 8 east of Montgomery Road by AZDPS, Pinal SWAT and Bortac Team 5. The driver was later identified as Hector Armando Quiroz (age 49 of Bonita, California). He was questioned, and subsequently admitted stealing a large crate from the parked semi trailer.

The owner of the semi trailer arrived back at his trailer while this was taking place, and contact was made with him by AZDPS. The semi trailer owner advised that the crate taken contained a turbine worth approximately $100,000. AZDPS then escorted the semi driver to the location of the stop. The semi trailer owner recovered the turbine at the scene of the stop. Quiroz was turned over to PCSO Patrol, and they took the theft case and prosecution on the Quiroz.

May 12th at 11:00 p.m. a group of 8 individuals was observed walking north approximately 3 miles south of Interstate 8 . These 8 individuals walked to I-8, and crossed over the interstate. Pinal SWAT, BORTAC Team 5, and Pinal K-9 moved in to apprehend these individuals, with air assistance. The subjects all fled northwest from that location.

At 2:30 a.m., one of the 8 individuals was apprehended and turned over to Border Patrol. The remainder of the individuals was unable to be located.

May 13th at 8:53 p.m. AZ DPS was involved in a pursuit with a vehicle which was reported stolen out of Glendale. The pursuit ended near Arizona City, and the driver fled on foot. The driver was apprehended by PCSO after a short fight with the deputies. The driver was turned over to AZ DPS for charging.

May 13th at 11:13 p.m. a truck was observed traveling “blacked out” south of Interstate 8. The vehicle was tracked to a location, where it was parked and a driver and passenger were seen “brushing up” the vehicle and leaving it. The driver and passenger were then seen “bedding down” approximately 100 yards from the vehicle.

With the assistance of air, Border Patrol Agents moved in on the driver and passenger, and one of these subjects was taken into custody. Pinal SWAT with BORTAC Team 5 moved in on the vehicle, a 1999 Ford F250, and secured it. The subject in custody was turned over to GIITEM for prosecution. The registration on the vehicle came back to a false address, and the vehicle was seized. The vehicle was a “supply” vehicle used to re-supply scout locations with food, etc.

May 18th at 10:35 p.m. units spotted bodies loading into a car on I-8 east bound. The vehicle then proceeded eastbound on I-8. Pinal SWAT members set up ahead of the vehicle to deploy spikes if needed, and AZDPS initiated a traffic stop. Gila River PD and Pinal SWAT/Bortac Team 5 backed up the DPS unit. The vehicle contained 4 Hispanic males believed to be “scouts”. These subjects were turned over to AZDPS GIITEM and Border Patrol for prosecution.

May 19th at 8:40 p.m. ICE Detention saw multiple subject loading “packs” into a large truck that was also accompanied by two small sedans. These vehicles traveled east on I-8 from that location. With the assistance of ICE and Air, units were able to catch up to the vehicles. A high risk traffic stop was conducted by Gila River PD, BORTAC Team 5 / PCSO SWAT, ICE Agents and AZDPS GIITEM on all three vehicles at approximately milepost 158 on I-8. The passenger of the truck fled, and was quickly apprehended by BORTAC Team 5 K-9. All occupants (total of 8 bodies) were taken into custody, and it was discovered that the cab of the truck had 8 bundles of marijuana weighing approximately 174 lbs.

May 19th at 9:45 p.m. the air unit advised that it had located bodies south of I-8 between Russell Rd and Murphy Rd.. Pinal SWAT and BORTAC Team 5 moved into the location with the assistance of air. No bodies were discovered, and it is believed that the heat signatures were residual from bodies that had been in that location, but made it out before ground units could move in.

May 19th at 10:32 p.m. Pinal SWAT and BORTAC Team 5 had a “blacked out” Ford truck pass one of our elements near Stanfield Road. After passing our personnel, the vehicle immediately fled at a high rate of speed west of Stanfield Rd., and into the desert area. Ground units were unable to maintain a visual on the truck as it traveled further south west into the desert area. Pinal/Bortac attempted to track the vehicle, but eventually lost sign as it traveled toward the gas pipeline road.

Sheriff Paul Babeu stated, “These multi agency details have a much greater impact than just in Pinal County. Pinal County is the number one pass through county in America for drug and human trafficking because of the roadways and terrain. The cartels of Mexico have between 75 to 100 lookout posts through this known drug and human smuggling corridor. They use these high vantage points to ensure their loads, whether they are humans or drugs, make it through. Some of these loads stop in Phoenix but many of them are sent throughout the United States. I appreciate the assistance provided by all of these law enforcement agencies to disrupt the cartels activities. We need this continuous law enforcement presence to help protect America until the border is truly secured.”

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Filed Under: County Government, Crime and Punishment, Drugs, Illegal Aliens, Illegal Immigration, Military, National Security, Press Release Tagged With: ,

Sheriff Paul Babeu: National Sheriff of the Year Dinner

April 20, 2011 By 3 Comments

Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu has been selected as the “2011 National Sheriff of the Year” by the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA). The NSA is the largest association of law enforcement professional in the United States, representing more than 3,000 elected sheriffs across the nation. This is the first time a Sheriff from Arizona has ever been selected for this very prestigious award.

On Saturday, April 23rd at 6 p.m. the “Paul Babeu for Sheriff Committee” will be hosting a dinner to honor Sheriff Babeu. The dinner will be held at “The Property” which is located at 1251 West Gila Bend Highway, Casa Grande, Arizona 85230 (map).

The dinner will be attended by Congressman Paul Gosar and Cochise County Sheriff Larry Dever. Ticket price for the dinner is $50 per person or $500 per table (10). Contact the Honorable Cheryl Chase 480-313-0701 or chase3130701@yahoo.com to R.S.V.P.

Sheriff Babeu has earned both statewide and national attention for his strong stance against illegal immigration. Babeu’s stance and actions against those responsible for drug and human trafficking has earned him the distinction as one of “America’s Toughest Sheriff’s on Illegal Immigration.”

America can no longer wait for action by the federal government to secure our border. Sheriff Babeu has taken on the fight in Pinal County. He has often said, “If we don’t stop it here then it will continue throughout America.” Sheriff Babeu and the Pinal County Regional SWAT and Narcotic’s Task Force have brought the fight directly to those responsible for drug and human trafficking. Operations are conducted weekly to dismantle and disrupt drug and human trafficking operation and arrest those responsible. Every time the cartels change their tactics to try and win the war, Sheriff Babeu changes our tactics to take them out.

Please join us at this dinner to honor our own Pinal County HERO Sheriff Paul Babeu.

 

 

Filed Under: Border, County Government, Elected Officials, National Security, Special Event Tagged With: , ,

Chuck Norris on Ben Quayle and Border Violence

March 22, 2011 By 12 Comments

This guest column appears today on Townhall.com. Don’t forget that Congressman Ben Quayle’s town hall meeting is tonight. (Details)

Exaggerated U.S. Border Violence? Hardly

By Chuck Norris

I agree with Rep. Ben Quayle, R-Ariz., who said that for cattle ranchers, the daily reality of drug and human smugglers traversing their property is “far more impacting” than Napolitano conveys. Quayle went on to say, “Statistics and averages might mean something to government bureaucrats and analysts in Washington, but try telling the people who deal with these realities every day that the violence along the border has subsided.”

Because of the feds’ ineptness and passivity, it’s no wonder that half the states in our union are taking matters into their own hands regarding border enforcement and immigration. Arizona-style laws have been proposed in approximately 24 other states. A total of 346 laws and resolutions related to immigration were approved by state lawmakers in 2010, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. More than 100 immigration-related bills are pending in Texas.

Texas Department of Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples just launched ProtectYourTexasBorder.com, where users can upload pictures and videos about their experiences with suspected drug traffickers at the Mexican border. The goal of the website is to warn the public about not only the dangers to farmers and ranchers but also the potential impacts on the nation’s food supply.

According to the Texas Department of Agriculture, at the Texan border alone there are:

  • Close to 8,200 farms and ranches, covering more than 15 million acres.
  • Producers of beef, fruits and vegetables that are essential to the nation’s food supply.
  • Counties that account for about half the state’s fruit and vegetable production and about 4 percent of the state’s total agricultural income.
  • Farms and ranches that make more than $700 million in agricultural sales every year.

Exaggerating border violence?

The only ones exaggerating are the feds — under-exaggerating the threat and severity of border violence and over-exaggerating their success of securing the United States’ southwestern border.

In fact, this past Thursday, Napolitano continued her same Obama-victorious-song-and-dance act at the U.S.-Mexico Congressional Border Issues Conference, boasting of (as summarized by her office) the Obama administration’s “unprecedented efforts to strengthen security along the Southwest border, which include increasing the number of Border Patrol agents from approximately 10,000 in 2004 to more than 20,700 today.”

But while the Obama administration continues to embellish its record, PolitiFact pointed out that it’s actually stealing its predecessor’s glory: “President George W. Bush was responsible for adding many of the agents on the ground now.”

Paul Babeu, sheriff of Pinal County, Ariz., put it well when he said that Napolitano’s talking points about security on the border have “more to do with political pivoting for the 2012 elections than (they do) with what is happening on the border.”

Ms. Napolitano, the truth is it’s you who is misleading the public. Playing down border violence and trumping up Washington’s successes may be effective for campaign rhetoric, but it’s killing our citizens — literally. At least I can agree 100 percent with you on this point: As you said back on Jan. 31, let’s “be honest with the people we serve. … Let’s stick with the facts. We need to be upfront and clear about what’s really happening along our borders.”

 

Filed Under: Border, Crime and Punishment, Guest Opinion, Illegal Aliens, Illegal Immigration, National Security Tagged With: , , , ,

Politics On The Rocks Event This Thursday Night!

March 21, 2011 By

Politics on the Rocks is excited to announce our next Happy Hour Networking Event featuring Sheriff Paul Babeu, Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane, and CD7 Candidate Gabby Mercer on Thursday, March 24th 6:00 PM at Revolver Lounge in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Sheriff Paul Babeu will be presented with the annual Politics on the Rocks Ronald Reagan Leadership Award at the event for his service and dedication to Arizona. We would like to thank our marketing partner Gem Ray and Scottsdale Nights.

The National Sheriffs’ Association recently named Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu as recipient of the 2011 Ferris E. Lucas Award for Sheriff of the Year. An NSA statement described Babeu as “one of the most progressive sheriffs in the country” and cited his strong stand against illegal immigration and Mexican cartels as having garnered statewide and national attention. Babeu graduated from the Arizona Law Enforcement Academy number one in his class. His civilian education includes an Associate’s Degree in Law Enforcement, Bachelor’s Degree in History/Political Science and a Master of Public Administration, Summa Cum Laude.

Mayor W. J. “Jim” Lane served for four years on the Scottsdale City Council beginning in June 2004, and began his first term as Mayor in January 2009. Mayor Lane served on the 2002 Scottsdale Fire & EMS Advisory Committee, which was convened to evaluate and make recommendations to the city regarding the desired level of fire and emergency medical services relative to cost. His community service also includes six years on the Scottsdale Paradise Valley YMCA Board of Management. He chaired the 1999 Kids Campaign annual fund raising effort. Mayor Lane holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia.

Gabriela Saucedo Mercer lives on Tucson’s west side with her husband of 24 years, Ted Mercer. Gabriela, “Gabby” for short, set aside her work career with a defense electronics firm in order to raise her 3 children and continue her education. As the kids were growing up Gabriela became more and more concerned about the direction that her adopted country had taken in recent years. She legally emigrated to the U.S. from Mexico in 1986 in order to live in a nation full of opportunity and Constitutional protections of individual liberties. She became a proud U.S. citizen in 1991.

We look forward to seeing everyone at our Happy Hour Networking event on Thursday, March 24th at 6:00 PM at Revolver Lounge in Scottsdale.

 

 

 

Regards,
Charles A. Jensen

Date: Thursday, March 24th
Time: 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Revolver Lounge
7316 East Stetson Drive, Scottsdale, AZ

 

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Elected Officials, Pol-parazzi, Special Event Tagged With: , ,

Criminal Allegations Against Chairman Pete Rios Sent to the Arizona AG to Investigate

March 14, 2011 By 3 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 14, 2011
CONTACT: Tim Gaffney

On January 27th, 2011 the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office received the attached letter from a “Concerned Citizen.” The Pinal County Attorney’s Office received the same letter. According to the letter, it was also sent to numerous media entities. The individual has raised issues regarding the residency and reimbursement requests for travel by Pinal County Board of Supervisor Chairman Pete Rios. If the allegations are true, they would be Theft and Fraudulent Schemes both of which are felony offenses.

The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office and County Attorney’s Office agreed the investigation would best be handled by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. On February 9th, 2011 Chief Deputy Steve Henry forwarded the investigation to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.

The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office has received media inquiries regarding this case as well as calls from citizens with information pertaining to this case. I am asking that all media inquiries and individuals wanting to forward information related to this investigation to please contact the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.

Sheriff Paul Babeu stated, “These are serious allegations against a well known political leader and Chairman of our Board of Supervisors. The allegations are best investigated by a neutral outside authority. Transparency will prove to be the best manner in which to overcome the past reputation of corruption in Pinal County.”

=============================

February 9, 2011

Arizona Attorney General
Attn: Mr. Tom Horne
1275 West Washington Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85007

Dear Mr. Horne,

Attached is a citizen complaint letter which was submitted to Sheriff Babeu and Pinal County Attorney James Walsh by a citizen requesting an investigation into Pinal County Board of Supervisor Chairman Pete Rios. The Letter alleges Mr. Rios does not reside within the boundaries of his supervisory district. It also alleges Mr. Rios has submitted fraudulent travel vouchers and received payments from the county and also the state.

As you may be aware, Mr. Rios is currently the Chairman of the Pinal County Board of Supervisors and has also served in both the house and state Senate, where he served as Senate President. If the allegations are true, this will certainly prove to be a high-profile public corruption case, due to the significance of the criminal allegations and the political standing of Mr. Rios.

Attached are photos which have been forwarded to my office of these properties in question and some of his past reimbursements. Also attached are letters that have been submitted in the past to the media regarding this same issue by concerned citizens.

To avoid any possible conflict, I am requesting your assistance in investigating this matter to determine if it is credible. If the investigation supports the claims by this citizen, I ask that appropriate charges be filed

Regards,

Steve Henry, Chief Deputy
Pinal County

===================================

January 24th, 2011

Pinal County Sheriff’s Office
Attn: Sheriff Paul Babeu
971 Jason Lopez Circle
Florence, Arizona 85132

Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Attn: James Walsh
30 North Florence Street
Florence, Arizona 85132

Re: Chairman Peter Rios

Sirs,

During the past two decades, Peter Rios has committed theft and fraud from Arizona taxpayers and it is time he be held accountable. Peter Rios lives at [redacted] East Mesquite, Apache Junction. I know this because neighbors who live next to him have confirmed he has lived there full time for many years. On the Pinal County website Mr. Rios says he lives in Dudleyville and has a temporary residence in Superior. Although Apache Junction is in Pinal County it is not in District One which he was elected to represent.

Mr. Rios commits theft and fraud each and every month when he submits paperwork to Pinal County for reimbursement. He lists his travel from the residence in Dudleyville ( [redacted] Malpais Road) or Superior ([redacted] West Palo Verde Drive). Both Dudleyville and Superior are within District One which he represents.

  • The miles according to Mapquest from his home in Dudleyville to Florence is 83 miles.
  • The miles according to Mapquest from his home in Superior to Florence is 30 miles.
  • The miles according to Mapquest from his home in Apache Junction to Florence is 32 miles.

Although living in Apache Junction Mr. Rios has claimed mileage reimbursement from Dudleyville during his time in the State Legislature and now for the past several years with Pinal County. Not only does Mr. Rios not live in the district he was elected to represent but he has stolen tax payer money with his fraudulent mileage reimbursement. This fraudulent practice has cost the state of Arizona taxpayers thousands and thousands of dollars.

If there is any doubts as to his residency, just ask the neighbors who live in his Apache Junction neighborhood and they will confirm he lives there full time.

As a Pinal County taxpayer, I demand an investigation into this manner. Pinal County is hurting for money just as every other county across our state. Why should an elected member sworn to represent us be allowed to steal from us.

Sincerely,

Fed Up With Pinal County Corruption

Cc:

Channel 3 News – 5555 North 7th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85013
Channel 5 News – 4016 North Black Canyon Road, Phoenix, AZ 85017
Channel 10 News – 511 West Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85017
Channel 12 News – 200 East Van Buren, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Channel 15 News – 515 North 44th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85008
Arizona Republic – 200 East Van Buren, Phoenix, AZ 85004
Apache Junction News – 115 North Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85220
KTAR – 7740 North 16th Street, Suite 200, Phoenix, AZ 85020
KFYI – 4686 East Van Buren Street, Suite 300, Phoenix, AZ 85034
Channel 4 News – 7280 East Rosewood St, Tucson, AZ 85710
Casa Grande Newspapers – 200 West 2nd Street, Casa Grande, AZ 85122
Coolidge Examiner – 353 West Central Avenue, Coolidge, AZ 85128
Eloy Enterprise – 710 North Main Street, Eloy, AZ 85131
Maricopa Monitor – 19756 North John Wayne Parkway, Suite 106 Maricopa, AZ 85139
San Tan Valley – 270 East Hunt Highway, Suite #16 San Tan Valley, AZ 85143

Filed Under: County Government, Crime and Punishment, Government Reform, Media Tagged With: , ,

Lunch with ‘Sheriff of the Year’ Paul Babeu

March 11, 2011 By

Please join The Arizona Latino Republican Association in honoring

Sheriff Paul Babeu

Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu

Saturday, March 19, 2011
1:00 – 4:00 PM

San Tan Flat Saloon & Grill
(Tom Lang Room)
6185 W. Hunt Highway
Queen Creek, Arizona

$25.00 Adults* $15.00 Children*
$15.00 College Students (With ID)*
*Cost of entry will include: Meal Choice of: Half Pound Burger, Mesquite Chicken Sandwich or Flat Iron Steak. All choices include one side, a fountain drink and gratuity. Two cash bars will be available.

All residual funds will benefit A.L.R.A.
RSVP Gortiz4@cox.net or call Rey Torres (480) 648-6859

 

 

Filed Under: Special Event Tagged With: ,
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