Honoring Victims, Supporting Survivors
 Millions fall victim to crime in the United States every year. In addition to the trauma, participating in the criminal justice system can be incredibly confusing and stressful for victims. That's why the work of victim advocates is so important. Victim advocates ensure crime victims feel supported through every step of the criminal justice process. Hear from Karyn Manning about what inspired her to become a Victim Advocate at MCAO.
2023 Maricopa County Veterans Stand Down
 The Arizona Veterans Stand Down Alliance, a program of the Arizona Housing Coalition, hosts the Maricopa County Stand Down. The event brings together military veterans and their families who may be at risk of or experiencing homelessness and connects them to services and resources.
The County Attorney's Office is fortunate to have employees who understand the impact of their work, know the issues our communities are facing, and, when given an opportunity, step up to help.
Every year, Prosecutor Suri Reddy from MCAO’s Trial Division coordinates volunteers from our office to participate in the Maricopa County Stand Down and help participants resolve minor outstanding criminal matters. Hear more from Suri about why this event matters and how it makes a difference.
  Phoenix Opioid Education Forums
MCAO participated in the City of Phoenix's Opioid Education Forums last month and spoke with parents and community members about the fentanyl crisis. Drug Enforcement Bureau Chief, Jeff Beaver participated in a speaker panel and explained how the County Attorney's Office is adapting to current fentanyl trends. |
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Missed the previous presentations? No need to worry, there are six more presentations this month! Hear from leaders and experts in opioid prevention, treatment, harm reduction and community safety. Attendees will be able to ask questions and provide input during the Q&A sessions. |
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Save Lives, Don't DUI
 May is an exciting time of the year for many reasons. It brings longer days, warmer weather, and signals the start of summer break for many high school and college students.
As a reminder, Arizona has a zero-tolerance policy for anyone under the age of 21 to possess or consume alcohol. When driving with alcohol in your system, regardless of the amount, you can be charged with a DUI. Having a DUI on your record can have long-term consequences detrimental to your academic standing and could limit future professional opportunities, not to mention it could cost someone their life.
Last month, Mother's Against Drunk Driving hosted a vigil to honor and remember all who have been injured or lost as a result of impaired driving. Family members spoke of the life-altering impacts of losing a loved one so suddenly and the pain of these avoidable crashes. There is no excuse for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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Keep your future in mind and make a plan before going out, and if you’re under 21, avoid alcohol entirely. Consider the safety of yourself and others with the following tips:
- Coordinate a designated driver before leaving home.
- If you are not confident you’ll make safe choices, give your keys to a trusted, sober friend.
- Never get in a car with a driver who is impaired.
- If you’re out on the road and see an impaired driver, don’t engage, pull over and call the police.
Don't Leave Me Behind
 According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, vehicular heatstroke is the number one cause of deaths in non-collision fatalities for children 14 and younger. Losing a child or a pet in a hot car is a heartbreaking tragedy that is completely preventable.
It's important for everyone understand that even on mild or cloudy days, temperatures inside parked vehicles can reach life-threatening levels. As temperatures continue to rise, it's essential that parents make a plan to remember every time a child or pet is in their backseat. This summer, let's make sure not one more life is lost to vehicular heatstroke.
Coming Up in the Next Issue...
- Summer Break Tips for Kids
- Internet Safety Habits for Everyone
- How to Improve Your Home Safety
 Coming Up this Month
 Join us for an informative class on how to be safe in public. During this presentation, Community Affairs Coordinator Joan Campbell will share how to remain vigilant of your surroundings and how to make a plan in the event of an emergency. This presentation will provide you with simple suggestions to improve your personal safety and be better prepared for unforeseen circumstances.

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