(The Center Square) – State-level border funding was allocated to sheriff’s departments throughout Arizona, the governor’s office announced on Wednesday.
Out of the $17.2 million from the “Stopping Arizona’s Fentanyl Epidemic” effort, the biggest distributions went to border communities.
Over $2.7 million went to the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office, over $19.9 million went to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office, and nearly $1.8 million went to the Nogales Police Department. Pinal County, which is not a border county but deals with a lot of its impacts, was allocated over $1.1 million in funding for its sheriff’s office.
“Our law enforcement officers play a critical role in securing our border and keeping Arizonans safe,” Gov. Katie Hobbs said in a statement. “By working together, we can stop dangerous drugs from harming our communities, assist those struggling with addiction, and ensure our officers have the tools they need to succeed. I’m proud to deliver this funding to local law enforcement to secure the border.”
When it comes to border security, sheriff’s departments and other state and local law enforcement agencies often find themselves on the front lines when it comes to drug busts and pursuits that are tied with cartels and other illegal activity at the United States-Mexico border. Pounds of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine and numerous other illicit drugs are frequently seized throughout the state.
“The Arizona Sheriffs Association thanks Governor Hobbs and the Arizona legislature for appropriating these funds to help combat border-related crimes,” Sheriff David Rhodes, president of the Arizona Sheriffs Association, said in a statement. “Local governments lack the needed funds to provide necessary law enforcement resources. We must all continue to work together.”
Sweeping border policy changes are expected on Jan. 20 when President-elect Donald Trump retakes office, and the Grand Canyon State will continue to be a focal point in the overall policy debate. Arizona voters passed Proposition 314 in November, which includes a key provision that would permit local and state law enforcement to enforce federal immigration laws.
However, the provision that’s also outlined in Texas legislation is being held up in federal court, making it unclear if it will come to fruition. Regardless, the incoming Trump administration has promised mass deportations and a further crackdown on drug trafficking, including classifying cartels as terrorist groups.