About Gila River Police Department

Enforcing Tribal, State, and Federal Laws with Integrity and Respect

The Gila River Police Department (GRPD) is a full-service, 24/7 law enforcement agency committed to the protection of life, property, and the sovereignty of the Gila River Indian Community. We are entrusted with enforcing tribal, state, and federal laws across the Community’s seven districts, which span more than 583 square miles in both Pinal and Maricopa Counties, adjacent to the Phoenix metropolitan area.

 

Our officers are certified through the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST) and hold special law enforcement commissions through the Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services. GRPD officers are empowered to investigate and present cases in tribal, state, and federal courts as appropriate. We work closely with other tribal, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure comprehensive public safety services.

 

Who We Are

We are a team of over 186 sworn officers and 71 civilian professionals committed to excellence in policing. From the Chief of Police down, we emphasize professionalism, accountability, and responsiveness to the community’s needs. We take great care in selecting personnel who embody our department’s core values and are dedicated to serving with integrity and respect.

 

What We Do

GRPD provides a wide range of law enforcement services, including: 

  • Proactive patrol and crime prevention
  • Criminal investigations
  • Community engagement and outreach
  • Directed enforcement and problem-solving strategies

 

Our approach is rooted in transparency, collaborative partnerships, and effective communication. Through our commitment to community policing, we aim to enhance the quality of life and safety across the Gila River Indian Community.

 

Our Community

The Gila River Indian Reservation was established in 1859, and the Gila River Indian Community was formally recognized by Congress in 1939. Home to members of the Akimel O’odham (Pima) and Pee-Posh (Maricopa) tribes, the Community’s cultural heritage and sovereignty are central to our mission. GRPD takes pride in upholding these values while addressing the evolving public safety needs of our people.

 

Our Mission

It is the Mission of the Gila River Police Department to protect life, property, and sovereignty of all members of the Gila River Indian Community by responding to calls for service with integrity, proactively looking to prevent crime, and improving the quality of the life of those we serve.

 

Our Vision

The Gila River Police Department will remain at the forefront of law enforcement by employing the most effective processes in providing quality Police services. Members of the Police Department will be leaders in initiating and maintaining positive relationships with neighborhoods, schools, businesses, and other members of our Community. The relationships will form a medium where public safety concerns can be anticipated and addressed.

 

Our Core Values

  • Integrity – We act with honesty and accountability in all that we do.
  • Respect – We treat all individuals with dignity and compassion.
  • Tradition – We honor the cultural heritage and sovereignty of our Community.
  • Professionalism – We maintain the highest standards of conduct and service.