AZ Candidate Jennifer Jones loses final federal civil rights case

On August 3rd, 2016  the Honorable Diane J. Humetewa of United States District for the District of Arizona, dismissed with prejudice in regards to Mrs. Jennifer Jones' civil rights lawsuit against the Town of Quartzsite. Judge Humetewa dismissed without prejudice the case brought by Mr. John L. Jones. 

Jones is a candidate for Arizona House of Representatives Legislative District 5, covering La Paz & Mohave Counties. This was the final (Jones III) of 5 cases filed by Jones since 2012. All previous cases have been dismissed.

Jones v. Quartzsite, CV-12-01383-PHX-JAT (“Jones I”);

Jones v. Quartzsite, CV-12-02629-PHX-LOA (“Jones II”);

Jones v. Quartzsite, CV-13-01770-PHX-DJH (“Jones III”);

Jones v. Quartzsite, CV-13-02170-PHX-DJH (“Jones IV”); and

Jones v. Parker, CV-14-01907-PHX-SPL (“Jones V”).

No. CV-13-01770-PHX-DJH.

The court ruled in the 27-page "unpublished" (In the context of federal appellate opinions, the term “unpublished” is synonymous with “non-precedential") document:

"Ms. Jones is no stranger to federal court litigation, as this Court has previously observed. Invoking 42 U.S.C. § 1983, this is one of five federal lawsuits Ms. Jones has filed against the Town and various of its officials since 2012 alone. This is the only lawsuit in which Mr. Jones also is named as a Plaintiff,2 and it is also the only one which is still pending in this District. Each of her other cases has been dismissed with prejudice."

Jennifer Jones on her "Campaign Scooter" Copyright Desert Messenger 2014 All rights reserved.

On October 24, 2013, while Jones II was still pending, Mr. Rhodes, on Plaintiff’s

behalf, commenced the present action. This complaint, too, is a cut and paste version of

the Jones I and Jones II complaints. This is an unusual twist in that it appears that attorney Rhodes was cutting and pasting from complaints which were signed and supposedly drafted by a pro se plaintiff.

The Honorable Neil V. Wake, to whom Jones IV was previously assigned, issued a similar order discharging Mr. Rhodes from representing Ms. Jones and notifying “the Montana State Bar Association regarding Mr. Rhodes’ failure to respond to court orders.” 

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED GRANTING Defendants’ Renewed Motion to Dismiss (Doc. 37) with prejudice as to Plaintiff Jennifer Marie Jones.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED GRANTING Defendants’ Renewed Motion to Dismiss (Doc. 37) without prejudice as to Plaintiff John Lavern Jones.

DOCUMENTS:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-Z6UlGYZmGlTFJyeWk2WmlZSnc/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-Z6UlGYZmGlSjB4NGhFSlZmZlE/view?usp=sharing

Quartzsite Police participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day 2015

The Quartzsite Police Department will be participating in the 

federal D.E.A.’s “National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day” on 

Saturday, September 26th from 10:00AM – 2:00PM. 

Please bring in all of your unwanted and expired prescription medications for proper disposal. Personal information will not be gathered and you will remain anonymous. Please remove all pills from prescription containers and put into plastic baggies. For safety reasons, needles, liquids and powders should remain in their original containers. 

Proper disposal of prescription medications at the Quartzsite Police Department ensures that these medications do not get flushed into and contaminate the water systems or sit in a landfill. Most importantly, it helps keep children, teens, and adults from accessing them and unlawfully abusing them. 

As a reminder, the Quartzsite Police Department has been awarded a Prescription Drug Drop Box from the Arizona Attorney General’s Office located inside the Police Department’s front door. To use the Prescription Drug Drop Box, just read and follow the simple instructions written on the outside of the drop box. Once finished, pull the green handle and drop your unwanted prescription medications into the Prescription Drug Drop Box. 

Anybody can access and use the Prescription Drug Drop Box during normal business hours Monday thru Friday. Any questions, please call us at the QPD main phone number (928)927-4644. 

Sex offenders alert in Quartzsite, AZ

COMMUNITY NOTIFICATION

LEVEL 3 SEX OFFENDER ALERT

The Quartzsite Police Dept. issued two Level 3 Sex offender alerts last week pursuant to ARS 13-3825, the Community Notification of Sex Offender Law.

The offenders have indicated that they will be living in Quartzsite. Notification must be made when certain sex offenders are released from the Arizona State Prison, accepted under an Interstate Compact or released from the county jail back into the community.

The individual has been convicted of a sex offense which allows for community notification. He is not wanted by the Quartzsite Police Dept at this time. This notification is not intended to increase fear; rather it is our belief that an informed community is a safer community. Citizen abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate, or harass sex offenders will not be tolerated.

The Quartzsite Police Dept. may be reached at 928-927-4644. If you have information regarding current criminal activity on this or any other offender, please call 928-927-4644, 311 Non-Emergency, OR Call 911.

Quartzsite Stabbing suspect arrested in Sacramento

Quartzsite, AZ - Roy Lee Barnhart, also known as "Waterboy Roy" was arrested in Sacramento, California in connection with the May 31st stabbing of one male and female victims in Quartzsite, Arizona.

In a press release issued today, Chief Ernie Renfro of the Quartzsite Police Department (QPD) proudly announces through good police work and the assistance of the Sacramento (CA) Police Department SWAT team, Barnhart was arrested today, June 5th, 2015, for the extraditable Felony arrest warrant in the City of Sacramento, California. Barnhart will receive an extradition hearing and eventually returned to La Paz County jail in Parker Arizona.

QPD Detectives Mike Lancaster and Hilario Tanakeyowma filed the below mentioned complaint/charges with the assistance of the La Paz County Attorney’s Office Deputy County Attorney Kellen Marlow and obtained a signed felony warrant from Judge T.W. Carnevale located at Justice Court #4 for two felony counts of Aggravated Assault with a Weapon/Dangerous Instrument and two felony counts of Disorderly Conduct with a Weapon/Dangerous Instrument. There may be additional charges to follow.

The stabbing took place on Sunday, May 31, 2015, when, around 8:00 AM, QPD was called to the scene of a fight where a male and female were stabbed by another older male suspect later identified as Roy Lee Barnhart AKA: Waterboy Roy at the Cactus Patch Mobile Park located in Quartzsite, Arizona.

A male victim was bleeding with a deep single stab wound to the lower back area. A female victim received minor cuts from the suspect’s knife. The Quartzsite Fire Department was dispatched to the scene where the male stabbing victim was airlifted to the West Valley Hospital in Phoenix with a serious stabbing injury.  The male victim has since been released from the West Valley Hospital and is recovering from his injuries.

Witnesses observed the fight between the two individuals, whereas the witnesses identified Roy Lee Barnhart AKA: "Waterboy Roy" as the person who stabbed the male and female victims and fled from the scene. Chief Renfro assigned Detective Hilario Tanakeyowma to conduct a follow-up interview with the victim at the West Valley Hospital in Phoenix and obtain his medical condition. QPD worked late into the night attempting to locate the stabbing suspect Barnhart,

Chief Renfro would like to thank the community members in advance for your assistance in the capture of Roy Lee Barnhart AKA: "Waterboy Roy."

The Quartzsite PD is dedicated to working hard to protect our citizens and visitors.
Ernie Renfro
Chief of Police Town of Quartzsite
Office: (928) 927-4644
erenfro@ci.quartzsite.az.us

Federal Judge dismisses Jennifer Jones' Quartzsite Free-Speech case

By Shanana Rain BearCat
Publisher, Desert Messenger
Quartzsite's FREE Community Paper

2:12-CV-01383 JAT Jones v. Town of Quartzsite et al

Jennifer Jones 

Quartzsite, AZ - Jennifer Jones, a local dog groomer, political activist, and former state candidate, lost her infamous Civil Rights case against the Town of Quartzsite in U.S. District Court Phoenix Division Tuesday, May 26th, 2015. (Jones was also publisher of a Quartzsite tabloid, but January was her last edition.)

In his ruling, U.S. District Senior Judge James A. Teilborg wrote, "this Court is dismissing this case with prejudice for failure to prosecute pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(b,) He continued stating, "judgment for Defendants on all counts. Plaintiff to take nothing, and the complaint and action are dismissed with prejudice." (meaning Jones is barred from bringing an action on the same claim.)

Jones had filed no less than 6 cases against the Town in Federal Court. This case was originally filed on June 27, 2012 by Jones herself. Since then, two attorneys requested to be withdrawn from representing Jones in separate filings, so Jones represented herself Tuesday. In September, 2014 the Court dismissed all complaints but First Amendment Freedom of Speech complaint. In one of her earlier complaints, Jones claimed that Quartzsite Town Council and Police Department had harassed her with warrant-less searches in an attempt to discourage her political activities. A court tossed that 2010 case a year later, a similar lawsuit filed in 2012 fell apart for failure to prosecute. As recently as March 30th this year, U.S. District Judge Diane J. Hemetawa ruled in favor of the Town of Quartzsite, against Jones for failure to prosecute.

These cases are related, in one way or another, to a Town Council meeting on June 28th, 2011 when Jones was ejected and arrested (later dismissed) during a public comment period. The video of the arrest soon went viral.

According to the Court, Jones had called the Court's chambers Friday, May 22nd, indicating that she intended to file a motion to continue the trial scheduled for Tuesday, May 26th, the next business day. The court notified Jones that the trial will begin Tuesday as scheduled and if a motion was filed, the Court would not rule on it before Tuesday. The court also Ordered Jones to appear for the hearing. Judge  Teilborg stated that Jones must be prepared to proceed to trial  in the event the Court denies the motion. "If plaintiff fails to appear or if the Court denies the motion to continue and Plaintiff is not prepared to proceed to trial at that time, her case will be dismissed for failure to prosecute pursuant to Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 41(b)."

After much publicity, Jones finally had her day in court, but filed two Emergency motions before the 9 am hearing Tuesday morning. The subpoenaed Jury Pool was assembled next door; the attorney for the Town, Larry Jay Crown of Titus Brueckner & Levine PC, was in attendance along with witnesses for the Town: former Quartzsite Town Manager Alexandra Taft, Former Quartzsite Chief of Police Jeffrey Gilbert and former Quartzsite Police Detective Richard Patterson. Quartzsite Mayor Ed Foster was in attendance supporting Jones.

Judge Teilborg denied Jones' first motion which asked the court to deny a previous motion allowing witnesses to testify via telephone.

Jones then pleaded her case for an extension. She explained that many of her witnesses were in public service and "it would be impossible for them to testify without a subpoena." Jones said there was no "physical way" to serve her witnesses all over the state of Arizona in a timely manner. She also explained she was learning very quickly, but did not expect to have to represent herself in this case.

Jones complained about not having a vehicle and having to drive multiple times to Phoenix. Jones complained about the long distance drive to Phoenix from Quartzsite. She also stated it was not possible for her to travel without making prior arrangements for her show dogs to be cared for. Jones said she made "every effort possible" to find a location in Phoenix for her dogs. Jones also reached out to people through social media, but "could not find anyone willing to accommodate the dogs with electricity."

She said she had problems with her email; admitting to not reading an important notice from the Court.

"Given I only had 21 days to spontaneously have 15 witnesses to prepare questions for, to locate if I could, to get subpoenas issued for, to get subpoenas served for...Nowhere in my logical mind did it occur to me that the May 26th date was being carried over," said Jones. She said she thought they were "back to the point of proposing dates."

Judge Teilborg mentioned Jones' lengthy document seeking an extension, calling it a masterpiece with citations and rulings a lawyer might prepare. He asked Jones how long she worked on it. Jones replied, "Every waking moment from the 12th [of May] until last night until about 10 pm." Judge Teilborg suggested the amount of time spent on the document could have been used to get subpoenas out and preparing her witnesses.

Jones said she didn't think the judge would actually approve her most recent attorney's request to withdraw from the case. "Never in a million years did I dream that you would grant that order" and not be allowed time to seek additional counsel. She stated she even went to the Arizona Governor's Inaugural and asked former Governor Jan Brewer's son if he would take a look at the case, but she didn't hear back from him.

Jones admitted fault in that she "did misunderstand the plain reading of what was in front of me. I'm throwing myself on the mercy of the court" and was not ready to proceed at this point.


After a 25 minute recess, the Court reconvened. Judge Teilborg denied Jones' motion for an extension. He said, "to move the case forward would invite the same litany of failures and excuses from the Plaintiff."

The Judge stated, "Plaintiff's claim that she was unaware of the trial date simply is not credible."

He said, "Plaintiff CHOSE to file in Federal Court in Phoenix."

Regarding the jurors, Judge Teilborg said, "some may have come from regions even further than Quartzsite!"

The Judge also stated Jones did not seek more time to find counsel after her 2nd attorney asked for withdrawal. Earlier this month, the clerk of the court sent an email to Jones with full instructions to prepare for trial date of May 26th.

Judge Teilborg stated Jones "disregarded Court's orders." He also stated, "The court has bent over backwards to accommodate the plaintiff's needs."

When Senior Judge James A Teilborg of U.S. District Court DISTRICT OF ARIZONA (Phoenix Division) asked if Jennifer Jones was ready to move forward 

with the hearing, Jones replied, 

"No, your honor, I'm prepared to go home and take care of my dogs." 

CASE DISMISSED.

Quartzsite Police arrest suspect in 3-year-old case

Quartzsite, AZ - Quartzsite Police arrested Daniel Thomas for 1st Degree Homicide and Arson of an Occupied Structure on the 3-year-old Linda Thomas Case. Here is the full Press Release issued this afternoon. 

"May 19, 2015
On Tuesday, May 19, 2015, at approximately 6:35 AM, Quartzsite Police Department (QPD) arrested Thomas Daniel for 1st Degree Homicide and Arson of an Occupied Structure on the identified victim Linda Garrett. The date of the offenses occurred on August 23, 2012. Thomas Daniel was charged and booked into the La Paz County Jail for the above mentioned charges.

On August 23, 2012, in the evening hours, victim Linda Garrett’s deceased body was found with multiple stable wounds and partially burned inside her mobile home located at 855 E. Rogers Road, space #21 in Quartzsite, Arizona. The late Linda Garrett was a long time resident of Quartzsite and liked by many. QPD case officers Mike Lancaster and Hilario Tanakeyowma received DNA from the Arizona Department of Public Safety Crime Lab matching Thomas Daniel taken from the deceased body of Linda Garrett.

On this date, QPD served search warrants for vehicles and the residence located at 410 S. Riggles road, space #WH2 in Quartzsite, Arizona. QPD is currently investigating and attempting to identify additional suspect(s) in this case. At this time, QPD will submit all evidence for forensic examination in support of the all charges. We are asking for assistance from anybody who has legitimate information on the death of Linda Garrett by contacting QPD Officers Lancaster and Tanakeyowma at the below listed phone number. The QPD continues to vigorously investigate all leads of the case surrounding the murder of Linda Garrett.

Chief Renfro would like to thank the community members for their patience with this investigation and the assistance from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, La Paz County Attorney’s Office and the Arizona Attorney General’s Office in Phoenix. The Quartzsite Police Department is dedicated to working harder and protecting our citizens. We will continue to pursue all those involved in this case and will not stop until justice has been served on all the perpetrators of this violent crime. See attached photograph of Thomas Daniel."

Ernie Renfro
Chief of Police
Town of Quartzsite
Office: (928) 927-4644
erenfro@ci.quartzsite.az.us

Quartzsite Police arrest 2 in Saturday's drive-by shooting

Quartzsite Police arrest 2 in Saturday's drive-by shooting

By Shanana Rain BearCat

Publisher Desert Messenger

Quartzsite- AZ- In the quiet town of Quartzsite a drive-by shooting took place Saturday, May 16th. Evidently it was a targeted shooting, not a random act of violence. A family member of the victim said there was a planned one-on-one fight planned, but the victim backed out. Quartzsite Police Department has arrested the alleged shooter and a female. The following is the press release issued this morning.

May 18, 2015

On Saturday, May 16, 2015, at approximately 4:16 PM, Quartzsite Police Department (QPD) was called to the scene of a shooting at the intersection of Palo Verde and Main Street in the Town of Quartzsite, Arizona. This information was provided to the QPD from the La Paz County Sheriff’s Office dispatcher from a 911 caller.  QPD Officer Conley and Sergeant Frausto arrived on scene and observed numerous individuals and a Hispanic male, later identified as Roberto Chavez, Jr., bleeding with a single gun shoot wound to the upper arm and back area. The Quartzsite Fire Department was dispatched to the scene where the shooting victim was airlifted to West Valley Hospital in Phoenix with serious injuries.  A short time later, QPD located the described shooter’s vehicle at 621 Spring Street in Quartzsite.  Chief Renfro called and assigned case Detective Mike Lancaster to the West Valley Hospital to interview and obtain his medical condition. The Quartzsite Police Department has spent hours processing the vehicle and scene by gathering evidence and witness statements.  QPD worked late into the night attempting to locate the shooting suspect(s).  

 

Ryan Rangel

Gloria Huerta

On Sunday May 17, 2015, at approximately 1:09 PM by good police work, QPD located and arrested Ryan Rangel for Attempted First Degree Murder and Aggravated Assault at Hadlock’s “Shady Spot” space number 6 (#40) in Quartzsite.  Also, Gloria Huerta was arrested and charged for Hindering and Facilitation of a fugitive. Both Ryan Rangel and Gloria Huerta were booked into the La Paz County Sheriff’s Department jail in Parker, Arizona for the above listed charges.  QPD will file long form charges through the La Paz County Attorney’s Office on the driver of the get-a-way vehicle identified as Orlando Tinoco for Attempted First Degree Murder and Aggravated Assault.

The Quartzsite Police Department continued to vigorously investigate all angles and aspects of the case surrounding the shooting of Roberto Chavez, Jr.  At approximately 1600 hours, the QPD recovered the weapon used in the shooting of Roberto Chavez, Jr.  At this time, QPD will submit all evidence for forensic examination in support of the all charges.

Chief Renfro would like to thank all the community members who provided valuable information and assisted us in the capture of Ryan Rangel. The Quartzsite PD is dedicated to working hard and protecting our citizens. 

Ernie Renfro

Chief of Police

Town of Quartzsite

Office: (928) 927-4644

erenfro@ci.quartzsite.az.us

QPD seeking 3 suspects in Saturday's Quartzsite drive-by shooting

Quartzsite, AZ - The Quartzsite Police Department is currently searching for three suspects allegedly involved in a shooting Saturday, May 16, 2015 in Quartzsite. Ryan Rangel, Gloria Huerta, and Jack Lane, two of which are depicted below are wanted for questioning.

If you are aware of the whereabouts of these individuals, please do not make contact with them as they may be armed and dangerous and you are urged to call 9-1-1 immediately.

UPDATE:

On May 17th, 2015 at 1:15pm the Quartzsite Police Department has arrested Ryan Rangel, identified as the Shooter in the drive-by shooting on May 16th. Full press release to follow.

Drive by Shooting in Quartzsite this afternoon

Quartzsite, AZ - Tonight, Quartzsite Police Department issued a press release regarding a drive by shooting which took place this afternoon in Quartzsite. 

MEDIA RELEASE:

On May 16th, at approximately 1620 hrs, the Quartzsite Police Department responded to a call of shots fired at Pattie's RV Park, located at 544 East Main Street. Upon arrival, a victim was found to have been shot on the left upper arm.

The victim, who has been identified, was flown to one of the Phoenix area hospitals.

At this time, Quartzsite Police is currently attempting to locate two persons of interest that may have been involved in the shooting and/or have information in connection to the incident. An all-points bulletin has been sent out to all state agencies to attempt to locate these two suspects.

If anyone has information please call
Quartzsite Police Dept at 928-927-4644 or
email qpd@ci.quartzsite.az.us

Skeleton remains found in desert near Quartzsite

The following is a press release issued by Town of Quartzsite this morning.

"In the morning hours of January 20, 2015, Quartzsite Police Department (QPD) received a call from a concerned citizen in the Scaddan Wash area located east to south-east from the Town of Quartzsite. 

The concerned citizen physically took QPD officers to the skeleton remains found while going on a morning walk in the desert. QPD officers arrived on scene and identified a human skeleton remains located approximately one mile south of Interstate 10 and east to south-east of the Town of Quartzsite. QPD officer immediately established a perimeter of the area and determined it was on the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land but within the jurisdiction of QPD. 

Chief Ernie Renfro placed a call for assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) to assist QPD with the processing of the scene. The FBI Agents and QPD officers process the scene into the evening hours of Tuesday, January 20, 2015. The human skeleton remains were removed from the scene by the Parker Funeral Home and eventually sent to the Pima County Medical Examiner’s Office in Tucson, Arizona for a scientific medical examination and for identification purposes. This will include dental, hair and DNA comparisons. The Quartzsite Police Department is dedicated and will work very hard to determine the identification and method of death. Once a positive identification has been accomplished, we will make notification to the family and then release further information to the Town of Quartzsite and media.

Ernie Renfro Chief of Police Town of Quartzsite Office: (928) 927-4644"

Many suspect the remains are of local resident Eric Stapleton, who went missing on May 18th, 2014, where he was last seen at his residence off Riggles Rd. Eric failed to report to work on May 20th and has not been seen or heard from since. His cell phone and car was at the house with the front door open. 

Friends and local residents pulled together search parties during the summer, scouring the surrounding desert on ATVs, scooters, cars, trucks, and on foot. Eric's family posted a reward, but there has been no news on his whereabouts. 

Quartzsite Halloween Walk planned for Friday, Oct. 31st

Join the fun! Halloween Walk on Friday, Oct. 31st

Sponsored by The PTA, Town of Quartzsite, Rotary, PNQ, QPD, & QFD

OCT. 31st SCHEDULE:

• 4:30 pm Kids Fun, Games, Costume Contest & Prizes,
Free Hot Dogs for Kids, at Community Center
• 5:30 pm Trick or Treating along the Haunted Walking
Path from Community Center to Town Hall
• 6:00- 8:00 pm Haunted House at Town Hall

The public is encouraged to come on down and see all the kids in costume. Folks can park along the street on E. Quail Trail, in the parking lots at the Community Center or at Town Hall. Please be mindful that Quail Trail will be closed at 5:30 pm. There will be 15 MPH speed limit and barricades in the area to keep our youth safe.

Businesses, Organizations, RV Parks and Groups are encouraged to participate. You can set up a “station” (Table, Traditional Trunk or Treat, Booth, Themed Spooky Scene, etc.) in one of three locations: outside the Community Center, along the decorated walking path on E. Quail Trail, or Town Hall. 

For More Info contact Town Hall 928-927-4333.

Businesses/groups wishing to donate candy or set up, call Rain 928-916-4235.

ROAD CLOSURE MAP

Quartzsite Police to host meeting regarding Missing Person Eric Stapleton Thursday 5pm

PUBLIC NOTICE

Quartzsite Police Department

Hosting a Community Update and Awareness Meeting in regards to the recent Missing Person Case of 

Eric Stapleton

This meeting is for informational purposes and giving the community an update in the on-going investigation only, tips and information will be taken at that time. Please understand limited information may be given. 

When:        THURSDAY, JUNE 12, 2014 

                   AT 5:00 pm

Where:      Quartzsite Town Hall, 

                   465 N. Plymouth, Quartzsite

Who:          Friends and Family, Media and 

                    anyone interested

Why:          To inform the public of the 

                    current status in the case

For questions, please call Quartzsite Police Dept. 

at 928-927-4644.

Missing Person in Quartzsite

ERIC PAUL STAPLETON

June 3, 2014 - Quartzsite, AZ - Quartzsite Police Department issued a Missing Person Notice early this morning. Eric Stapleton was last seen May 18, 2014 at his residence off Riggles Road. Eric failed to report for work on May 20, 2014 has not been seen or heard from since. He is 58 and has grey hair, about 5'10 or 6' tall. His cell phone & car was at the house with front door open.

If you have any information of the whereabouts of Eric Stapleton or any information pertaining to this flyer please contact the Quartzsite Police Department Officer Conley or Officer Tanakeyowma at 928-927-4644 or Dispatcher 928-669-2281

Quartzsite Police joins Special Olympics Torch Run April 30

The Quartzsite Police Department (QPD) invites you to come out and support the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics on Wednesday, April 30, 2014.This is the first official run and participation by the Quartzsite Police Department, who will escort the Special Olympic Torch through the Town of Quartzsite by running and riding bicycles. Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Officers from the QPD, along with the Arizona Department of Public Safety, and other Public Safety agencies will be running and carrying the torch on Highway 95/Central Avenue from the Quartzsite water treatment facility north of Quartzsite. The Torch will be carried through Quartzsite on Central Avenue to Main Street then to Riggles Road. The Torch will be escorted to the next leg where it will be handed off to Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.  On May 2^nd, the Torch will reach downtown Phoenix at the Capital, where a special ceremony will take place.

The event is estimated to take place from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. From this day forward donations will be accepted along with Torch Run T-Shirts will be sold for Special Olympics Arizona. For more information, call Officer Hilario Tanakeyowma at 928-927-4644. To learn more about Special Olympics Arizona or to make a donation online, go to www.SpecialOlympics.com

Quartzsite Mayor offers settlement IF Council abolishes Police Dept.

By Shanana Rain Golden-Bear
Publisher Desert Messenger

Quartzsite, AZ - In a letter dated April 9, 2014, Mayor Ed Foster's attorney Julie A. LaBenz presented a "Settlement Offer" to the Town of Quartzsite, in an effort to resolve La Paz County case number CV2013-0115. Foster wants the Town Council to vote to abolish the Quartzsite Police Department, and have La Paz County Sheriff provide law enforcement services. 

Foster's case challenges a ruling which denied him the right to use his Mayor's Veto. Quartzsite Town Council approved Resolution 13-09 on December 10, 2013 regarding a USDA Sewer Loan to expand the sewer treatment plant. The council voted 5-1 to approve the resolution with an emergency clause, but that failed because 6 votes were required from the 7-member board. Council approved the resolution without the emergency clause.
Then on December 17th, the council approved the resolution with the emergency clause, with Foster voting nay. Foster later attempted to use his Mayoral Veto and stop the resolution. Mohave Superior Court Judge Rick Lambert ruled the execution of the contract as an "emergency". Foster is appealing that ruling, which has resulted in placing the sewer loan on hold.

During his campaign, Foster pledged to fire former Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert. Gilbert was released from his contract in October 2013. Gilbert stated his ouster was orchestrated to cover up an inquiry he launched into Town Council members for allegedly releasing confidential police documents. Foster has advocated disbanding the police force and letting La Paz County Sheriff's Office handle the town's law enforcement. Earlier this year, the council refused Foster's idea, so now he's offering to "settle" his case.

The letter reads as follows: (see link at end of article for copy of the original letter)

In the settlement offer Re:       

Settlement Offer pursuant to Rule 408, Arizona Rules of Evidence

Dear Mrs. Schwab & Mrs. Ronan, In an effort to resolve La Paz County case number CV2013-0115, pursuant to Rule 408, Arizona Rules of Evidence, Plaintiff Mayor hereby conveys the following offer of settlement:That in exchange for Defendants' agreement to the following, Plaintiff Mayor will withdraw his veto and dismiss his appeal:

• Vote to abolish the Quartzsite Police Department;

• Enter into an Intergovernmental Agreement with the La Paz County Sheriff's Office to provide a Quartzsite Metro Squad to patrol Quartzsite, saving the Town approximately $500,000 per year;

• Dedicate the funds saved by abolishing the Quartzsite Police Department to the HURF loan and the prospective USDA loan for a period of six (6) years;

• Agree that the sewer rates be restructured to be based strictly on a volumetric rate based on water usage; and

• Payment of Mayor Foster's legal fees and costs in full.

This offer will expire at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 25, 2014.

Today, Desert Messenger received the following opinion letter from a reader,

"It appears that Mayor Foster is "blackmailing" the rest of the Town council in exchange for dropping the law suit he has pending against his own Town! He is calling (soliciting) (demanding) for a vote to abolish the Quartzsite Police Department and to enter into an agreement with La Paz County!  Dictating the sewer rates to his terms! Demanding that his legal fees and cost are paid by the Town he is the mayor of! This must be exposed and reported to the Attorney General's office!

If this isn't BLACKMAILING or some type of violation of public office laws, then there is no hope for this Town! The Mayor is suppose to serve the people who elected him, NOT be SELF SERVING! This man will never get it! The council meeting is Tuesday (today) 4-22-14 at their first evening meeting at 7:00 pm. It is about time the Desert Messenger is responsible and it exposes the corruption of Foster and his dictatorship style of a public figure. Come on Ms Rain, get your butt down to the meeting and get the facts reported. You should be able to still up some real thunder with a name like that! This may mean nothing more for the rest of the county to laugh at, but for Quartzsite we take it very seriously because it is destroying everything good that we have."

The next meeting is tonight, Tuesday, April 22 at 7pm.

Foster settlement offer. 4-9-140001.pdf

Quartzsite Police Dept. to participate in Drug Take-Back Day April 26

QUARTZSITE POLICE DEPT. SET TO PARTICIPATE IN PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE-BACK DAY ON APRIL 26

Take-Back Day to help residents clean out their medicine cabinets of old, unwanted, potentially harm

On Saturday, April 26th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time, Arizonans will be able to drop off their expired, unused, and unwanted pills at sites across the state free of charge; no questions asked. Drop off free of charge at Quartzsite Police Dept. 

These Take Back Days give the public the opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired or unwanted prescription drugs.

Medicines that languish in home cabinets create a public health and safety concern because they are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high—more Americans currently abuse prescription drugs than the number of those using cocaine, hallucinogens, and heroin combined according to the2011 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) . Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

Arizonans responded overwhelmingly to DEA’s seven previous Take-Back Day events, disposing over 35,000 pounds of pharmaceutical drugs in the past three years.

The public can find a nearby collection site by visiting www.dea.gov , clicking on the “Got Drugs?” icon, and following the links to a database where they can enter their zip code.

Inquiries can also be made at 1-800-882-9539.

Quartzsite Town Council terminates contract with Police Chief Jeff Gilbert

By Shanana Rain Golden-Bear
Publisher Desert Messenger
Quartzsite, AZ - Tuesday, October 22, 2014, Town Council voted to terminate the contract of Quartzsite Chief of Police Jeff Gilbert. Council members had been attempting to terminate Gilbert for many years, and recently the efforts escalated. Council returned from a long executive session and terminated Gilbert's contract "Without Cause" and will "provide severance as provided by the contract." No explanation was given to the public, however, Council Member Mary Scott said, "The Town is going in one direction, and the Chief is going in another." After the vote, Gilbert addressed the council and the public saying he was grateful for the support of the community for the past eight years. The Council denied the public to comment on their decision. 

Former Quartzsite Chief of Police Jeff Gilbert
Photo by Shanana Rain Golden-Bear

Desert Messenger

Gilbert became famous in June 2011 when 80% of QPD officers filed a vote of "No Confidence" in his leadership. The majority of those officers were eventually terminated by former Town Manager Alex Taft, and are still in litigation with the Town. In 2010, Mayor Ed Foster initiated several complaints against Gilbert. Town of Quartzsite administration ordered an investigation by Jackson Lewis, LLC, which has since been made public online: http://www.epageflip.net/issue/37347.

When the video of local activist Jennifer "Jade" Jones being forcefully removed from a council meeting went viral in July 2011, Quartzsite received attention from around the globe. Shortly thereafter, Mayor Ed Foster, who had been censured, announced to media that the Town was under "Martial Law" and that Gilbert was "running the town". Foster's 2010 mayoral campaign was based on promises to "get rid of the Chief." Foster was ousted by voters in a recall election in 2011, but regained his Mayoral position in 2012. Foster spearheaded the attempt to oust the Police Chief for many years by filing more complaints with state agencies.

Several DPS investigations could not prove any wrong doing by the Chief. Gilbert continued in his position until September 2012 when Assistant Town Manager Al Johnson illegally placed him on paid administrative leave. Quartzsite Town Council then terminated Taft, and hired Interim Town Manager Laura Bruno. Council reinstated Gilbert on Sept. 25th, 2012. http://desertmessenger.blogspot.com/2012_09_01_archive.html After Council granted Bruno another year contract, tensions increased between Bruno, Gilbert and Council members.

UPDATE: In an interview with Arizona Republic's Dennis Wagner, "Gilbert said his ouster was orchestrated to cover up an inquiry he launched into Town Council members for allegedly releasing confidential police documents.

On August 8, 2013 Council Member Mark Orgeron submitted two requests to Bruno requesting agenda items to be placed upcoming meetings; for the August 13th meeting Orgeron wanted "to define the office hours of the police department as well as when phones should be routed to central dispatch." Council held a lengthy discussion on this procedural matter. Planning ahead for the September 10th Town Council Meeting, Orgeron wanted to "recruit and hire an Interim Chief of Police," but this item did not appear on the meeting's agenda to be discussed.

Disagreements became evident during the September 24th council meeting. Bruno, Gilbert, and Town Attorneys disagreed about the proposed Police Policies which requires officers to video ALL contacts with citizens. Gilbert argued for the officers to able to use their professional judgement. Council approved the new policies with minor changes to read, "In the event a citizen requests that they not be recorded, the officer shall take the request into consideration." Citizens expressed their disagreement with their decision. Evidently, negotiations with Gilbert were already underway, as Council then went into executive session to "consider its position and instruct its attorneys regarding the Town's position regarding the contract with Police Chief Jeff Gilbert that is the subject of negotiations." Council took no action at that time.

Almost a full month later, Quartzsite Town Council terminated Gilbert's contract without any discussion or public comment. 

Following Tuesday's Council meeting, Gilbert's supporters expressed their disappointment, while Gilbert opponents jeered. 

Gilbert consoling his supporters after contract was terminated by council

Photo by Shanana Rain Golden-Bear

Desert Messenger

Ongoing battle between La Paz County Sheriff and Quartzsite Police Chief

Quartzsite, Arizona- During Wednesday's Coffee with Cops meeting, Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert read the letter (see below) received from La Paz County Sheriff John Drum. According to the letter, Drum has "rescinded" Quartzsite Police Department's (QPD) "authority to 'concurrent jurisdiction' throughout the unincorporated areas of La Paz County." Drum "expects" QPD to contact his office immediately if any Quartzsite Police activity extends into the Sheriff's Office jurisdiction. Drum also stated any self initiated investigation would need "pre-approval."

Gilbert told the crowd that the matter has been handed over to the Town Attorneys. Gilbert stressed that the residents in the unincorporated communities just outside of Quartzsite, namely La Paz Valley and Rainbow Acres, would still be protected by law enforcement officers.

"If we are needed, we will be there for you!" Gilbert stressed. "It's about protecting the public first," he said. Gilbert explained, that many times, QPD officers are the first on the scene, even if it's located outside of Town Limits. With such a large county to cover, often La Paz County Sheriff Deputies are not available in the area, and QPD is called out.

County Attorney dissolved the county Task Force, known as C.A.D.R.E. on June 13th. Police Departments of Quartzsite and Parker were members of the Task Force prior to Drum taking office in January. Since then, Drum and the two Police Chiefs have been at odds in public, sending multiple press releases to local media. Drum made it clear he wants to form his own Task Force, but with recent events, it's unclear whether the only two incorporated Towns in the county will join.

Chief Gilbert also announced QPD's new "No Drugs…No Thugs…No Crime" Campaign aimed at the prevention and the apprehension of illegal drug and criminal activity in the Town of Quartzsite.

Gilbert said, "The recent events that have resulted in the dissolution of the joint drug task force by La Paz County officials has led the Quartzsite Police Department to take a different approach in its fight against illegal drug and criminal activity."

“No Drugs…No Thugs…No Crime”

In a press release issued July 1st, Gilbert stated, 

The police department has already implemented efforts that have led to the arrest of five individuals for felony drug offenses and one individual for misdemeanor drug offences in the past few weeks.  Illegal drug activity is often the catalyst to other victim crimes such as burglary, theft and assaults.

The Quartzsite Police Department will continue to work with all Local, State and Federal agencies to further drug investigations and to deter criminal activity driven by such crimes.  “We will take an aggressive approach to enforcement and prevention through enhanced efforts by the members of this department.”

Recently, the Quartzsite Police Department was assisted by the Parker Police Department in conducting a search warrant after a felony drug arrest.  “Chief Mendoza and I are committed to working together effectively as our criminal activity often crosses boundaries.”

Citizens are encouraged to report illegal drug activity or any information that could lead to the arrest of subjects involved with any type of criminal activity.  Please call the Quartzsite Police Department at (928) 927-4644 or Central Dispatch at (928) 669-2281 and always remember to call 911 if it is an emergency. 

Gilbert assured local residents that the Quartzsite Police Department will continue to serve and protect the public.







Sheriff Drum to QPD

Quartzsite Police Dept. conducts DUI detail July 4th

DUI Traffic Enforcement Detail

 The Quartzsite Police Department, in conjunction with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety will be conducting a DUI enforcement detail during the July 4th holiday weekend. We will be enforcing speed, aggressive driving and DUI laws.

The penalties for DUI can include loss of your driver’s license, expensive fines, jail time, increased insurance rates, possible loss of life or injury and having your name published in the local newspaper.

The Quartzsite Police Department reminds you that if you drink, do so responsibly, don’t drink and drive, make sure to have a designated driver and always wear your seat belt at all times. 

Quartzsite Police Dept. & DEA host Drug Take-Back Day Sat. April 27

DEA HOSTS ITS SIXTH STATEWIDE PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE-BACK DAY 

APRIL 27 AS PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 

CONTINUES TO RISE

Take-Back Day to help residents clean out their medicine cabinets of old, 

unwanted, potentially harmful drugs

PHOENIX – With public participation at an all-time high after five prior events in two years, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and its state, local, tribal, and community partners will hold a sixth Prescription Drug Take-Back Day across the state on Saturday, April 27^th.  Collection sites are open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time.  The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

Quartzsite residents can participate be dropping off their expired, unused, or unwanted prescription drugs to the Quartzsite Police Department between 10-2pm on Saturday.

The Quartzsite Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition (QSAPC) has brought substance abuse awareness to the community on a wider scale than had ever been present in prior years. With members from local Civic and Community Leaders through formalized training under SPF-SIG, the QSAPC began and remains committed to changing local conditions that contribute to substance abuse. To learn more visit  http://www.ci.quartzsite.az.us/Qsapcoalition/Quartzsite_Coalition_Summary_Doc_2011-12.html

The public has embraced the opportunity these Take-Back Day events provide to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, or unwanted prescription drugs.

“Arizonans responded overwhelmingly to DEA’s five previous Take-Back Day events, disposing of over 35,000 pounds of pharmaceutical drugs in the past two years, “said DEA Special Agent in Charge Doug Coleman.  “We know that young people consider controlled-substance prescription drugs like Vicodin to be a safer way to get high, but they couldn't be more wrong.  By removing unwanted prescription drugs from their homes, the public helps prevent experimentation, addiction, overdose and even death.”

Unused medications in homes create a public health and safety concern, because they are highly susceptible to accidental ingestion, diversion, misuse, and abuse.  Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high--more Americans currently abuse prescription drugs than the number of those using cocaine, hallucinogens, and heroin combined, according to the most recent National Survey on Drug Use and Health.  The majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet, according to surveys of users. 

The public can find a nearby collection site by visiting www.dea.gov, clicking on the “Got Drugs?” icon, and following the links to a database where they enter their zip code.  Only solid medicines may be turned in.  No liquids, injectables or needles will be accepted.

Four days after DEA’s first Take-Back event 30 months ago, Congress passed the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010, which amends the Controlled Substances Act to allow an “ultimate user” of controlled substance medications to dispose of them by delivering them to entities authorized by the Attorney General to accept them.  The Act also allows the Attorney General to authorize long term care facilities to dispose of their residents’ controlled substances in certain instances.  DEA is in the process of drafting regulations to implement the Act.

If you’re a parent, please take the time to talk to your children about the harm caused by medicine abuse and educate yourself on the signs of abuse.  Please visit DEA’s interactive website for further information, www.justthinktwice.com and www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com.