Maricopa Police Department Statement on Completion of DPS Investigation
News Source: City of Maricopa
Maricopa, Arizona, March 18, 2026 — The Arizona Department of Public Safety concluded its independent investigation into a series of historical cases dating between 2012 and 2022. Chief Mark Goodman requested the investigation after a routine evidence review revealed discrepancies in the status of older criminal cases. The Maricopa Police Department (MPD) has reviewed the results and completed the correlated disciplinary actions resulting from the investigation as required by state law prior to public release of the investigation.
The investigation determined that a total of 40 cases involving serious crimes such as sexual assault, child molestation, and sexual conduct with minors from that period were not properly investigated or documented in accordance with departmental policy. These deficiencies included incomplete case files, insufficient supervisory oversight, and in some instances, failure to forward cases for prosecutorial review.
Prior to being aware of the discrepancies in these cases, the Maricopa Police Department implemented several system improvements in recent years that directly address the types of deficiencies identified in this review. These measures are designed to strengthen oversight and prevent similar issues in current and future cases.
Over the past two years, the department has:
- Implemented a new case management system that provides robust supervisory oversight and regular reviews for pending or incomplete work.
- Enhanced training for Criminal Investigations Division personnel focused on investigative standards, evidence handling, and documentation procedures.
- Established stronger quality assurance and accountability mechanisms, including periodic case reviews and internal compliance checks.
The Maricopa Police Department is continuously reviewing its processes, policies and procedures to improve its service for the citizens of the City of Maricopa and remains committed to continuing to do so.
A total of seven officers had cases included in the investigation. The majority of those cases were handled by two officers who have retired from the department.
Of the five officers who remain employed, two received disciplinary suspensions. For the remaining three officers, it was determined, based on a totality of the circumstances, that disciplinary action was not warranted.
The Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST) will receive the full investigation to review and determine action on peace officer certifications as appropriate.
Chief Mark Goodman stated:
“Maintaining integrity within the investigations we conduct is at the core of public trust. Once these historical deficiencies came to light, we acted swiftly and decisively to ensure the systems, training, and leadership in place today reflect the highest professional standards. Our focus remains on accountability and delivering justice for victims.”
Following the review, all 40 cases were evaluated and either reassigned or assessed by the Criminal Investigations Division to determine their viability. At this time, 14 cases remain open, including five that have been submitted to the Pinal County Attorney’s Office for charging review. The remaining 26 cases have been closed.
To continue in transparency, the entire report from DPS is available for viewing on the Police Department page of the City’s website. Appropriate redactions to protect victim information have been made. It is important to note that some of these cases deal with sensitive matters, and discretion is advised when accessing the report. The report may be viewed through the following link: Additional Information.
The Maricopa Police Department remains committed to continuous improvement and to ensuring every investigation meets the expectations of both the community and the criminal justice system. MPD extends its appreciation to the Arizona Department of Public Safety for conducting a thorough and impartial review.
