Gila Herald Staff Reports
PHOENIX — The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) has released a new, eight-minute video detailing the ongoing impact and coordinated efforts behind Operation Desert Guardian (ODG). The public safety initiative brings together 12 state and county law enforcement and public safety agencies to disrupt criminal networks, combat drug trafficking, and strengthen security across Arizona.
The newly published video offers a behind-the-scenes look at nearly a year of intelligence-driven enforcement, showcasing the collaboration between participating state and county partners from December 2025 through September 2026.
Key Enforcement Results
Throughout the reporting period, Operation Desert Guardian achieved significant milestones in curbing illicit operations across the state:
- More than 2,900 ODG-related arrests.
- 8,900+ pounds of illegal drugs seized.
- An estimated $19+ million in illicit drugs intercepted on the street.
- Approximately 1.2 million fentanyl pills intercepted.
- 127 firearms confiscated from criminal networks.
AZDPS Director Colonel Jeffrey Glover credited the initiative’s success to close multi-agency coordination and strong backing from state leadership.
“Operation Desert Guardian demonstrates what is possible when agencies work together with a shared mission and commitment to public safety,” said Colonel Glover. “I want to thank Governor Katie Hobbs for her continued support and investment in this initiative. Her commitment has provided us with the resources necessary to sustain these targeted enforcement operations and strengthen our partnerships with law enforcement agencies across Arizona.”
Collaborative Law Enforcement Network
Operation Desert Guardian brings together a diverse coalition of state and local entities sharing intelligence and operational resources:
- State Partners: Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS), Arizona Department of Homeland Security (AZDOHS), Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs (DEMA), Arizona Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family (GOYFF), and the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS).
- County Partners: Sheriff’s offices representing Cochise, Coconino, Greenlee, La Paz, Navajo, Pinal, and Yavapai counties.
State officials emphasize that beyond the staggering enforcement metrics, the initiative’s core mission remains fostering long-term regional cooperation to keep Arizona communities secure.
