Arizona State Gang Task Force detectives are making our communities safer by taking dangerous suspects off the streets and getting weapons out of the hands of prohibited possessors.

In late September, a months-long, multi-agency investigation focused on illegal weapons trafficking in the Phoenix metro area culminated in the arrest of four suspects and the recovery of 32 firearms, including 23 that were reported stolen. The operation, which targeted individuals involved in the illicit sale of firearms and dangerous weapons, also led to the seizure of stolen suppressors and a Glock switch.

On Friday, September 26, 2025, Arizona State Gang Task Force detectives executed five residential search warrants in locations across Phoenix. In addition to the firearms and suppressors, investigators seized stolen property linked to burglaries around the Valley, approximately $10,000 in cash, and a small quantity of fentanyl pills.

The suspects arrested in connection with the investigation include:

• Charles P. Mendoza, 22, of Phoenix
• Luis A. Pizano, 21, of Phoenix
• Christopher J. Lopez, 18, of Phoenix

These individuals face numerous felony charges, including trafficking in weapons, money laundering, illegal control of an enterprise, misconduct involving weapons, theft of a firearm, and more.

Additionally, Jasmine T. Olivas, 19, was arrested on charges of possession of narcotic drugs and possession of a weapon during a drug offense. A fifth person was arrested for an outstanding warrant.

The success of this operation highlights the critical role our partnerships and intelligence sharing have in protecting the public. The multi-agency coordination was essential in ensuring that those responsible for trafficking illegal firearms are held accountable for their actions.

The AZDPS extends its gratitude to all the law enforcement partners who assisted in this investigation, including the Chandler Police Department, the Goodyear Police Department, and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.

The mission of the Arizona State Gang Task Force is, in collaboration with citizens, partnered agencies, and intelligence resources, to suppress criminal gangs and transnational crime.

PHOENIX – On Friday, September 26, 2025, the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) will launch the SAFE Alert program, which will replace the previous Silver Alert system. This enhancement will expand the criteria and improve the state's ability to quickly locate and safely recover missing vulnerable individuals.

The SAFE Alert is designed to notify the public swiftly when certain individuals go missing, including seniors and persons with cognitive or developmental disabilities. Under the new system, law enforcement agencies are prohibited from delaying or denying alerts when the criteria are met and are required to conduct biannual training on the alert protocol.

About the SAFE Alert

The SAFE Alert system provides an effective, coordinated notification method using multiple communication channels to assist in the safe and expedient recovery of missing persons. The system utilizes media and public safety networks to distribute real-time information when someone goes missing under qualifying conditions.

SAFE Alert Criteria (per A.R.S. § 41-1728)

A SAFE Alert will be issued when a law enforcement agency confirms the following:

1. The missing person is:

• 65 years of age or older, or
• Suffers from Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, or
• Has been diagnosed with a developmental disability (A.R.S. § 36-551.20), or
• Has been diagnosed with a cognitive disability (A.R.S. § 36-551.15)

2. The investigating agency has exhausted all local resources, including:

• National Crime Information Center (NCIC) entry
• Bulletins, flyers, BOLOs/APBs
• Checks of alternate residences, hospitals, jails
• Use of cell phone and in-vehicle location systems
• Contacting family, friends, or social workers

3. The person went missing under unexplained or suspicious circumstances.

4. The person is believed to be in danger due to age, health, disability, environmental conditions, or other risk factors.

5. There is sufficient information available that, if shared publicly, may assist in their safe recovery.

Alert Dissemination Tools

The AZDPS uses the following resources to activate and spread SAFE alerts:

• Emergency Alert System (EAS) (via generic FEMA coding)
• ADOT Highway Message Boards (if a vehicle is involved)
• All Points Bulletins (APB) to law enforcement
• AZDPS Alerts Website: www.azdps.gov
• AZDPS Mobile App (iOS and Android)
• Social Media Channels: Facebook, Twitter/X
• Text and Email Notifications

Media Availability with AZDPS Alert Coordinator Kelsey Commisso

Friday, September 26, 2025, at 11 a.m.

AZDPS Headquarters - 2102 W. Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85009

Please RSVP via email: [email protected]