ODE Joins Rwandan Community for Genocide Remembrance Ceremony
 Operations Division East was honored to be invited by the Rwandan community to participate in Kwibuka, a commemoration of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
Sergeant Jeremy Williams, along with Community Service Officers Terry Hayward and Carrie Ord, represented the division at this deeply meaningful event.
Kwibuka, which means “To Remember,” is a time for reflection, mourning, and solidarity. The ceremony paid tribute to the more than one million innocent lives lost and offered support to the survivors and their families, who continue to carry the weight of this tragedy.
We are proud of our ODE team for their continued commitment to community engagement and for standing with our Rwandan neighbors during such a solemn and important occasion. Their presence reflects our shared values of compassion, respect, and unity.
ODE Supports Youth Empowerment at Camp Fury
Personnel from Operations Division East proudly participated in Sponsor Night at Camp Fury, representing the S.T.A.R.T. program and supporting youth engagement in public safety careers. Organized annually by the Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona, Camp Fury brings together scouts from Tucson and across the country for a unique, immersive experience in fire, emergency services, and law enforcement.
ODE Sergeant Brichelle Saarloos also took part as a role player, contributing to the direct learning and mentorship that define the camp. Over the course of five days and nights, participants engage in activities such as search and rescue, crime scene investigation, and physical fitness drills. The camp highlights the accomplishments of young women, while introducing them to female professionals who are breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. The week concludes with a graduation ceremony celebrating each participant’s achievements, joined by family and friends.
Thank you to all ODE personnel who contributed their time and expertise to support the future of our Tucson girls and inspire the next generation of leaders in public safety.
Crime Prevention Tip
With the 4th of July just around the corner, did you know that improper use of fireworks is not only unsafe – it can also be a crime?
Below are some common consumer fireworks that are illegal to use in Arizona, outside a permitted public fireworks display.
Fireworks that are not consumer fireworks are federally regulated, and even transporting them without the proper license or permit is illegal.
Any fireworks use that causes harm, whether negligent or intentional, can subject the person to criminal and civil liability. Check out these Fireworks Safety Tips from the National Safety Council.
Finally, keep your pets indoors and calm over the holiday. Animal shelters receive the highest number of strays this time of year – dogs and cats who bolted out the door to run away from all the frightening noise.
Enjoy the 4th and stay safe!
June Event
The ODE Division Advisory Committee (DAC) meeting took place on Wednesday, June 26th at 6:00 p.m. in the Community Room of the Erik D. Hite Eastside Substation, located at 9670 East Golf Links Road.
Community members were invited to join us for an important discussion on several key topics:
Street Projects Update – Representatives from the Department of Transportation & Mobility (DTM) gave a brief presentation on current and upcoming road work and infrastructure projects affecting the Eastside.
Crime Trends – ODE shared recent data and insights on Part 1 Crimes from the past quarter.
Community Safety Near Udall Park – ODE addressed concerns regarding increased homelessness and related criminal activity in the area of Udall Park. TPD, in collaboration with the City's Parks & Recreation Department, outlined planned strategies to address these issues.
The meeting included a call to the audience, offering residents the opportunity to share concerns, ask questions, and engage directly with department representatives.
Personally, I would like to take a moment to recognize and express my sincere appreciation for the unwavering support shown by the Eastside community. As Division Commander, I consider community trust and support to be among the most vital components of our success. Together, we can continue to build a safer and stronger community for all.
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