On the morning of Thursday, August 13, 2026, an Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) trooper assigned to the Canine District stopped the driver of a Chevrolet Malibu on Interstate 8 in southern Arizona for a civil traffic violation. During the stop, the trooper observed several indicators of criminal activity. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed multiple cellophanewrapped packages hidden inside. Further investigation uncovered approximately 150 pounds of methamphetamine concealed throughout the car. The driver was booked into jail on charges including possession and transportation of a dangerous drug for sale.

That afternoon, a Canine District trooper in the Holbrook area stopped the driver of a Chevrolet Traverse on Interstate 40 for civil traffic violations. Indications of criminal activity were observed during the stop, and a search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a suitcase in the trunk. An AZDPS drug detection canine alerted to the suitcase, and troopers found approximately 26 pounds of cocaine inside. The driver was arrested and booked into jail on charges including possession and transportation of a narcotic drug for sale.

AZDPS Canine District troopers remain vigilant in their efforts to keep dangerous drugs out of Arizona’s communities, and their skill and dedication are integral to the Department’s ongoing public safety mission.

PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) is proud to introduce Daisy, the agency’s first-ever crisis response canine.

Daisy, a four-month-old Australian labradoodle, was generously donated to AZDPS by Blue Line Doodles of Arizona, Pups and Warriors Side by Side (PAWSS), and Post Incident Stress & Trauma in Law Enforcement – Public Safety (PISTLEPS). Through their partnership, Daisy joins the Department at the start of her crisis response training, working closely with her handlers to build the skills needed for future deployments.

Crisis response canines play a vital role in public safety. Their presence can help reduce the body’s stress response, allowing victims, survivors, family members, and witnesses to better process traumatic events. These dogs also support first responders by offering a sense of stability and connection in the immediate aftermath of emergencies.

Daisy is assigned to Detective Carpenter and Detective Villela with our Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT). Our crisis negotiators respond to high-pressure situations where communication and de-escalation are critical.

On Friday, July 24, 2026, Daisy responded to her second call for service — and her first operational deployment — in Tucson, assisting the CNT during the service of a high-risk search warrant. During the operation, an uninvolved adult resident experienced significant emotional stress and was evaluated by medics as a precaution. Daisy calmly approached and crawled onto the man’s lap, providing steady comfort throughout the assessment. After being cleared, he asked Daisy to return and greeted her with a big smile as soon as she hopped back into his lap.

Daisy’s first deployment demonstrated exactly why crisis response canines are an invaluable resource for public safety—her presence helped bring steadiness and support to a stressful situation. AZDPS looks forward to the positive impact she will continue to make across the state.

The Department extends its sincere gratitude to Blue Line Doodles of Arizona, PAWSS, and PISTLE-PS for their support and generosity.