The Apache Junction Police Department, working with federal, state, local and non-governmental partners, conducted a two-day undercover operation on June 5-6 aimed at people who used the internet and social media to solicit minors for sexual activity.

During the operation, undercover investigators posed as minors online and contacted people who believed they were arranging meetings with children under the age of consent. Investigators said they established probable cause through documented communications and coordinated meetings at a controlled location, where suspects were taken into custody.

As a result, 10 individuals were arrested and booked into the Pinal County Adult Detention Center on felony charges, including luring a minor for sexual exploitation, attempted sexual conduct with a minor, sex trafficking, aggravated luring, and misconduct involving weapons. The department said none of the people arrested were Apache Junction residents. It said all 10 traveled to Apache Junction from other Arizona communities believing they were meeting a child for sexual activity, and bonds were set as high as $350,000.

The operation was carried out with agencies including the Chandler Police Department, City of Mesa Police Department, Queen Creek Police Department, Arizona Department of Public Safety GIITEM, the Department of Homeland Security, Rocky Mountain Information Network, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pinal County Attorney's Office, Darkhorse Benefits, and the Arizona Anti-Trafficking Network.

Officials said the operation targeted people seeking to engage in child sex trafficking and sexual exploitation of minors. The Apache Junction Police Department said it will continue investigating crimes against children and working with partners to protect vulnerable people from exploitation and trafficking.

Casa Grande, AZ

Casa Grande Fire Department marks Father’s Day with thanks

The Casa Grande Fire Department posted a Father’s Day message thanking local firefighter dads. The department said it honors fathers who balance family life with protecting and serving others.

Craig Otto Found Safe, Casa Grande Police Say

Casa Grande Police said Craig Otto has been safely located. The department thanked the community for sharing the missing person post.

Casa Grande Union High XC Club Summer Conditioning Starts June 2

Casa Grande Union High School’s Vista Grande Cross Country team is inviting students to join summer conditioning. Practices run Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. starting June 2.

Casa Grande Union High Sets Pinal Promise Deadline

Casa Grande Union High reminded students in the Class of 2026 that the Pinal Promise application deadline is July 1, 2026. The school said applicants need to complete and submit the application before the deadline.

Casa Grande urges pet licensing and microchipping before July 4

The City of Casa Grande said the days after July 4 are the busiest of the year for lost pets in animal shelters. It urged residents to license and microchip their pets, noting July 4 is about two weeks away.

Casa Grande warns residents about trash billing portal changes

The city says the current electronic payment portal will stop accepting payments after June 21, 2026. It also plans a temporary closure of the Finance Department from June 29 to July 10 while a new trash and Sewer billing system goes online.

Casa Grande Library Hosts June Dinosaur Craft

The Casa Grande Main Library will hold a hands-on dinosaur craft program on Monday afternoons in June. The event runs from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., and registration is not required.

Casa Grande library offers hidden dino fact card challenge

The City of Casa Grande Public Library is inviting people to search for hidden dino fact cards and answer questions. Participants can claim a prize at the front desk while supplies last from June 22 through June 27.

Casa Grande Fire Promotes Fire Safety Week Theme

The Casa Grande Fire Department says the NFPA has announced Fire Prevention Week’s safety theme: “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging is a Superpower.” During Fire Prevention Week, October 4–10, the department plans to share safety tips and activities for all ages.

Casa Grande to Hold Fourth of July Celebration

Casa Grande Parks & Rec will host the city’s 4th of July celebration on July 4, 2026. The event runs from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with fireworks at 9:00 p.m.