Our New PCAO Website Is Here!
We’re excited to share the new Pima County Attorney’s Office website! The updated site makes it easier for our community, and our staff, to find information, resources, news and updates from PCAO.
Take a look around, explore the new site and see what’s new. And be sure to share it with friends, family and community members who may be looking for information about the work we do and the services we provide.
Check out the new PCAO website and take a look!
Pima County Attorney's Office – The Peoples' Office
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Statement on LGBTQ+ Shooting in Tucson
TUCSON, AZ (August 31) —"Our LGBTQ+ community feels under attack upon awakening to the disturbing news of what occurred overnight outside what is normally a welcome and safe environment.
No one should fear being targeted simply because of who they are and where they gather. I speak in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ community.
At this point, the shooting appears to be a tragic and isolated incident, and because all known suspects are deceased, there will likely be no prosecution to follow. Nevertheless, we have full confidence that the Tucson Police Department will thoroughly investigate what appears to be a hate-fueled attack.
Our Victim Services Advocates are ready and available to help; they can be reached at 520-724-5525 during the day and through law enforcement at night. Our thoughts are with those dealing with this terrible loss.”
Pima County Attorney Laura Conover
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Pima County Attorney Says: No Changes to Election Procedures Following Supreme Court Action
TUCSON, AZ (August 25) —The Pima County Attorney’s Office is reassuring voters that local election procedures will stay the same following the U.S. Supreme Court’s action on the latest executive order regarding election activity and the U.S. Postal Service. Pima County Attorney Laura Conover says her message is clear.
"Yesterday's ruling from the Supreme Court regarding the current administration's executive order on elections and the U.S. Postal Service, changes absolutely nothing regarding our voting process. No new voting restrictions will happen because of this decision, and the Supreme Court’s ruling does not change our state voter-registration procedures. We will proceed with mail-in ballots here in Pima County in the same way we did during the primary.
Voters who choose to vote by mail should continue to do so and follow the established rules and deadlines set by our election’s officials. We are continuing to work in close consultation with the Tucson Police Department and Pima County elected officials and staff to educate voters and handle issues as we head into the general election. I can’t stress enough that mail-in voting has not changed for the people of Pima County.
We are tracking litigation and will challenge any future executive orders and blatant attacks on our democracy. Rest assured that we will move forward with safe and reliable elections in our community. If you see something or feel intimidated at a polling site, say something.”
Voters who have questions about accessibility or other voting-related issues can contact the Pima County Elections Office here:
https://www.pima.gov/394/Elections. You can also reach out to the Pima County Recorder's Office at 520-724-4330.
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We are recognizing the hardworking and winning teams here at PCAO for everything they do in the courtroom. Here are some of the convictions from the month.
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On July 17, 2024, a 46-year-old victim was purchasing a drink at an East Tucson convenience store when the defendant, who was also inside the store, began to antagonize the victim.
After words were exchanged between the two men, the victim walked out of the store and was followed by the defendant, who engaged the victim again and fatally shot him in cold blood.*
A Pima County judge sentenced the defendant to natural life in prison without the possibility of parole. This sentence for first-degree premeditated murder ensures that he will be held accountable for taking a life.
Thank you to the team of Deputy County Attorney Nanette Morrow, Victim Advocate Nicole Morin, and Detective Kelly Ewings for their successful investigation, collaboration, and conviction in the case.
Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family and friends.
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On September 2, 2023, the body of a 37-year-old woman, who had previously been reported missing by her family, was found in a remote area wrapped in bedding. Investigators determined that she had been shot multiple times by the defendant following an argument. Detectives diligently investigated the case by identifying witnesses, gathering cell phone data, and obtaining critical video evidence that led to the defendant's arrest.
Throughout the investigation and trial, our Victim Services team worked closely with the victim's family and friends to provide guidance and support as they navigated the entire process.
On July 20, 2026, a Pima County judge sentenced the defendant to natural life in prison with no possibility of parole. This will ensure that the defendant is held fully accountable for his crimes.
“We want to especially lift up juror service, which is not easy, but nonetheless critical. In this trial, the jurors had to analyze footage of the actual incident at close range, depicting a rare and very disturbing execution-style killing. We know the toll that can take, and we are especially grateful.”
-Pima County Attorney Laura Conover
Congratulations to Deputy County Attorney Mark Diebolt, Paralegal Luis Garcia, Legal Secretary Samantha Croy, Victim Advocate Serafin Caraballo, and Pima County Sheriff's Detective Nadeen Dittmer for their outstanding work and successful investigation, prosecution, and conviction in a first-degree murder trial.
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Congratulations to Heidi Tadlock on her APAAC Lifetime Achievement Award!
Heidi has dedicated 32 years of service to the people of Pima County. She has served in both the Operations Division. assisting with Grand Jury and in her current role as Legal Secretary in the Felony Charging Division.
Heidi has consistently demonstrated an ability to complete her work with a high level of accuracy and take initiative to go above and beyond that exemplifies the highest standard of public service to her community. Many of her peers seek guidance from Heidi and she is always willing to help.
Her decades of commitment to PCAO and her contributions to public safety and the administration of justice make her exceptionally serving of this award.
| Celebrating Baja’s Eight Years of Service | |
For eight years, a quiet set of paws has made its way through the halls of the Pima County Courthouse and some of the most difficult moments faced by victims and witnesses. Now, after a career spent offering comfort, reassurance, and a little canine companionship, Baja is officially enjoying retirement.
Baja joined the PCAO Courthouse Dog Program in 2018 after coming from Assistance Dogs of the West in New Mexico. At just 2 years old, he was placed with Victim Advocate Kristin Fitzpatrick, his handler and companion throughout his career. Baja will continue to live with Kristin in retirement.
During his eight years of service, Baja supported hundreds of children, teens, and adults as they navigated the criminal justice system. He accompanied minor victims of crime on the witness stand 14 times and provided a calming presence during countless trials, hearings, interviews, and meetings.
Baja was part of the Pima County Courthouse Dog Program, operated by PCAO since 2012. Courthouse dogs provide emotional support to victims and witnesses, helping ease the stress and anxiety that can come with participating in criminal proceedings.
Baja’s work with children was recognized in 2023, when the Courthouse Dog team received the Heroes Without Capes Award from the Southern Arizona Children’s Advocacy Center.
Of course, Baja had his own personality outside of work. He loved taking lids off empty water bottles, sneaking his head into office trashcans, and sleeping on top of people’s feet. When he was vested and working, he would regularly touch his nose to his handler’s hand, a quiet reminder that he was paying attention and ready to do his job.
After eight years of dedicated service, Baja has earned his retirement. His presence will be missed around PCAO and by the many people he helped along the way.
Enjoy retirement, Baja! You’ve certainly earned it.
| San Miguel Students Gain Experience at PCAO | |
Through San Miguel High School’s Corporate Work Study Program, students gain hands-on experience in professional workplaces while continuing their academic studies. For the past two years, PCAO has been proud to host San Miguel seniors Dorayma Chavez and Yamilet Martinez, giving them an opportunity to explore careers and experience the workplace firsthand.
Dorayma chose PCAO because she wanted to “be introduced to law as a possible career field.” Yamilet, who previously interned in education, wanted to learn more about what a career in law might offer and see which field she enjoyed more. Both are considering law while also looking forward to exploring their options in college.
During their time at PCAO, Dorayma and Yamilet have helped Human Resources assemble and deliver new-hire “goodie bags,” assisted with orientation presentations, organized records, and even worked with the Communications team on some of its swag.
Their experience has helped them build professional skills, explore career possibilities, and gain a better understanding of the many roles within a public agency.
We are grateful to have Dorayma and Yamilet as part of the PCAO team and wish them both the very best as they take their next steps toward college and their future careers.
| | Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention | | |
PCAO staff collaborated with the Tucson Police Department on a comprehensive Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention, brought to Tucson by TPD to strengthen our community’s response to one of the most dangerous forms of domestic violence.
Nearly 100 law enforcement officers, along with five Domestic Violence prosecutors, six victim advocates, and multiple probation officers, are participating in this comprehensive training. The program focuses on helping professionals better understand intimate partner non-fatal strangulation and strengthen how these cases are investigated, prosecuted, and presented.
Attendees had the opportunity to hear from to Casey Gwinn and Gael Strack, nationally recognized leaders in domestic violence and strangulation prevention, who led the training.
To learn more: Training Institute on Strangulation Prevention
| | Grand Opening of the Pima Family Advocacy Center | | |
The Pima County Attorney’s Office was proud to join community partners for the grand opening of the Pima Family Advocacy Center on August 14, celebrating an important milestone in our shared commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
County Attorney Laura Conover joined staff from the PCAO Victim Services and other community leaders for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which marked the official opening of the Center and the next chapter in providing coordinated support, resources, and advocacy to survivors and their families.
The Pima Family Advocacy Center brings together vital services and community partners in one supportive environment, helping survivors navigate the resources available to them while promoting safety, healing, and justice.
PCAO is grateful to the dedicated advocates, service providers, and community partners who make this work possible. We are proud to be part of this collaborative effort and remain committed to ensuring survivors throughout Pima County have access to the support and services they need.
To learn more: Pima Family Advocacy Center
| | PCAO Restorative Justice at "Healing Our Community" Event | | |
Pima County Restorative Justice joined community organizations and resource providers at Goodwill of Southern Arizona’s Healing Our Community Event on August 29, helping connect residents with services and resources designed to support healing and reduce community and gun violence.
The family-friendly event brought together community members, local agencies, and organizations to create space for those impacted by violence to honor loved ones, build connections, and learn about resources available throughout Pima County.
Staff from Restorative Justice were on hand to share information about services and connect with community members. The event also provided an opportunity for participating organizations to strengthen partnerships and raise awareness about the programs and resources available to individuals and families.
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County Attorney Laura Conover also taped a "Pet Safety" PSAs in both English and Spanish. Click on the video above!
The Pima County community faces ongoing challenges with animal neglect and cruelty.
The Pima Animal Care Center and the Pima County Attorney’s Office want the community to be aware of how they treat their pets, especially during the harsh summer conditions.
Let’s keep our furry loved ones healthy and safe!
The Spanish version can be seen here: ¡Mantengamos a nuestros queridos peluditos seguros y saludables!
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We recruit legal researchers, litigators, and professional staff who use their unique talents to move our Office forward. You’re invited to apply to work for a progressive prosecuting agency that values accountability, public service, and outcome-driven thinking.
We offer excellent work-life balance, great incentives, and a generous benefits package, including:
- Healthcare Options
- Paid Leave Options
- Flexible Work Arrangements
- Retirement Benefits
- Education Reimbursement Program
- Tuition Discount Program
- Employee Loan Program
- Employee Referral Incentive Program
- Wellness Program with up to $75 monthly medical premium discounts
- Employee discounts for fitness clubs, goods, and services
Pima County provides equal access and equal opportunity in employment and services and does not discriminate. Click on the button below to view all open PCAO positions.
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Here's a look at some of the links to our social media and podcast messages we've shared throughout the month.
All Podcast episodes are available here:
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