Surrounded by Sierra Vista law enforcement officials, Gov. Katie Hobbs on Wednesday announced $41 million in funding for the Cochise County police department and sheriff’s office to help tackle border-related crime.
Most of the money will go to the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office, but cities and towns like Benson, Douglas, and Wilcox will also benefit from investments in new law enforcement technology. A portion of the funds will also be donated to the Southern Arizona Regional Border Patrol Team to invest in new technology and purchase helicopters.
“Cameras, radar and communications equipment allow police to proactively identify possible criminal activity and communicate with other units across borders,” Hobbes told reporters.
The $41 million comes from the state border patrol fund established under the administration of former Gov. Doug Ducey.
Separately, Mr. Hobbes announced that he would commit more than $8 million to expand broadband connectivity to nearly 8,000 homes and businesses in Cochise County.
