The Mexican drug cartels are active in Pinal County and no one will dispute that. But not everything that happens is related to the cartels. As sheriff, I would have waited to share vital information until the evidence indicated solid facts in a complex investigation. I would never speculate on an ongoing investigation, nor would I try to stir up people’s fears without any type of evidence. I have served nearly two years as a board member on the Alliance to Combat Transnational Threats. This organization was created in 2009 and combines the resources of over 60 federal, state, local, and tribal agencies in Arizona along with the Mexican government. It was designed to help combat individuals and organizations that pose a threat to Arizona and Mexico. As part of the investigation into this horrific crime, I would have been in contact with my colleagues with in this organization to see if this fit with any other cartel related murders. I find it alarming that Mr. Babeu did not attempt to contact this organization for information that would have been helpful in handling this case.
This is yet another attempt by Babeu to sway citizens into believing that areas of Pinal County are over run by Mexican drug cartels. What message has Babeu sent to businesses who desire moving to Pinal County? Do these potential tax paying and job creating businesses now question their future safety and profitability given that the sheriff has cast doom and gloom over the entire county? It is time to end the fear mongering and scare tactics that have been used by the current sheriff for far too long. As your sheriff, I will perform a thorough investigation and provide the pertinent information that the public truly needs. There will be no grandstanding or political gamesmanship. It is time for Pinal County to have a sheriff that puts the county first and not his own political desires.
