Gila County Sheriff's Office

06/14/2026

06/10/2026

Traffic Stop Leads to Methamphetamine and Co***ne Seizure on US-60

On May 30, 2026, at approximately 11:30 p.m., a Gila County Sheriff’s Office Deputy assigned to the Southern District conducted a traffic stop on an eastbound sedan traveling on US-60 for multiple civil traffic violations.

During the stop, the Deputy observed several indicators of criminal activity. After consent to search the vehicle was denied, K9 Ripp conducted a free-air sniff of the vehicle and positively alerted, providing probable cause for a search.

During the search, Deputies located approximately one pound of methamphetamine and four grams of co***ne.

The driver and passenger were arrested and booked into the Gila County Jail on multiple felony drug-related charges, including possession, transportation, and possession for sale of dangerous and narcotic drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, and promoting prison contraband.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to keeping dangerous drugs off our streets and protecting the communities we serve.

06/08/2026

Brush Fire in Tonto Basin Results in Structure Losses, No Injuries Reported

On June 7, 2026, at approximately 11:48 a.m., a brush fire was reported in the 400 block of North Pioneer Pass in Tonto Basin.

Resources from State Fire, the United States Forest Service, Tonto Basin Fire Department, Payson Fire Department, and the Gila County Sheriff's Office responded to the scene.

Upon arrival, firefighters observed the fire burning in close proximity to several structures with a moderate rate of spread. Deputies immediately began issuing SET and GO evacuation notifications to residents along Pioneer Pass and portions of the east side of Highway 188.

Several structures were lost as a result of the fire; however, no injuries have been reported at this time.An investigation determined the fire was caused by a male subject who was welding on a gate. The subject was subsequently issued a citation for ARS 13-1702(A), Reckless Burning.

The Gila County Sheriff's Office would like to thank all responding agencies for their quick response and coordinated efforts.