The arrests in the "Serial Shooter" case are a great credit to the Phoenix Police Department.  Chief Jack Harris and his team led a relentless investigation and committed massive law enforcement resources to apprehending the two men who are now accused of killing seven people and wounding 17 in a string of shootings over the past 15 months. 

As the Chief stated, much credit also goes to the many law enforcement agencies that pulled together in the investigation and to citizens who contributed thousands of tips and other information that helped identify the shooters.

As this case shows, Arizona has a tradition of outstanding cooperation among local, state and federal law enforcement officials.  We put public safety first, far ahead of any concerns about any individual role, authority or who gets credit.  Like many other agencies, my office had ongoing contact with Phoenix police and other investigative agencies, quietly offering any and all assistance that could be useful.

With the "Serial Shooter" suspects in custody, the hunt has intensified to find another methodical criminal known as the "Baseline Killer" who has murdered eight people and committed more than a dozen sexual assaults.  Phoenix police have redeployed some 200 officers to work on that case, and the assistance of other agencies and citizens in the community may again be crucial.

The professionalism and dedication of law enforcement officers across our state, and their readiness to work shoulder to shoulder when needed, are an invaluable Arizona resource.  I am proud to work with them.

Terry Goddard