The Santa Cruz County, Arizona, sheriff’s office has come under scrutiny over allegations that it declined requests for assistance involving threats, violence, and property damage during protests at border wall construction sites.
In an Oct. 9 open letter, the Arizona Sheriffs’ Association (ASA) expressed “deep concern” over the allegations, citing reports from federal and state law enforcement officials.
“They have also described masked participants from outside Arizona. These allegations merit documentation and appropriate investigation,” the association wrote.
The letter named Santa Cruz County Sheriff David Hathaway, alleging that he publicly described directing deputies not to respond to calls associated with border wall protests except in cases involving violence….