News from the Maricopa County Attorney's Office

Understanding the criminal justice system can be difficult, but you don’t have to go to law school to learn about how it works. The criminal justice system relies on an extensive process centered around rules, decision making, and facts. It’s important to our office that residents of Maricopa County learn how to navigate and understand this complex process.

Learn more about the Prosecution Process »

The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office has a very important job in keeping communities safe. Part of that job takes place outside the courtroom helping prevent crime through awareness and education. While many don’t plan to ever be involved with the criminal justice system, it’s necessary to be prepared and take time to understand how it works.

Learn more about Crime Classification »

During these unprecedented times its important to help out one another and donating to a charity might seem like a good way to do so. However, while some charities are supporting those affected by COVID-19, others are set up to take advantage of the situation and make a profit. Do your research and ask the right questions before making a donation. Be on the lookout and learn about some of the tell-tale signs of a charity scam.  

View the Warning Signs »

A new study led by researchers at the Standford University School of Medicine found that young people ages 12 to 24 who had used e-cigarettes in the previous 30 days were almost five times as likely to be diagnosed with COVID-19 than nonusers. Those who had used both e-cigarettes and conventional cigarettes in the previous 30 days were six times more likely to be diagnosed with the disease. 

Learn more about Vaping »

There is still time to be counted! Counting everyone in your household can help shape Arizona’s future. Take 10 minutes to fill out your census survey!

The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office works not only to bring justice to communities throughout the valley but to help prevent crime as well. To adapt to changing conditions brought on by COVID-19, the office’s Community Affairs team will be offering free safety presentations online covering the issues that affect families the most. 

Schedule an Online Safety Presentation »

Maricopa County Attorney Allister Adel signed the One Community Arizona Unity Pledge to demonstrate her support of inclusion and diversity at the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. The Unity Pledge is a concerted effort by Arizona businesses, organizations and individuals to advance workplace equality and equal treatment in housing and public accommodations for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBTQ) individuals and their allies. 

Learn more about the Unity Pledge »

Maricopa County Prosecutors now have new policies to guide how to handle cases that normally end in plea agreements, and for the first time in the history of the county attorney’s office, the new plea policies are posted online for public consumption. 

Learn more about Prosecution Policies and Plea Procedures »

County business leaders met virtually today with Maricopa County Attorney Allister Adel to discuss items of interest to the Maricopa County business community.

Check out MCAO's Business Advisory Board »

On August 19, 2020, a Maricopa County Grand Jury charged Michael Roy Turney, age 72, with one count of 2^nd Degree Murder, a Class 1 Felony, for the death of Alissa Turney. Alissa Turney was 17 years old when she vanished.

Read the full News Release »