(from left to right) Steve Costello, David Keeber, Marie Carpenter, Janet Kelly, Tracie Schimikowsky, Gioia Goodrum, Phyllis McDaniel, Sherri Lee observe the DPS Andros F6A Robot as part of Criminal Justice Day.

Verde Valley Leadership Class III holds Criminal Justice Day

Cottonwood, AZ (June 19) - Members of Class III of Verde Valley Leadership held an Issue Day focused upon Criminal Justice. The goal of the day was to learn about criminal activity and rehabilitation in Yavapai County. The Issue Day was held at the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors room in Cottonwood.

First, a Partners Against Narcotics Trafficking (PANT) officer spoke to the group. The group learned about how the local law enforcement coalition has worked cooperatively with law enforcement departments in Yavapai County to reduce drug related criminal activity.

Following the PANT presentation, an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officer spoke to the students. The participants were able to tour the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Bus, which travels around the state responding to emergency calls. The bus is part of the DPS Special Enforcement Bureau in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit.

Following the presentations by local law enforcement representatives, Jerona Café catered lunch. After the meal, MATforce Program Manager Merilee Fowler spoke with the group. Merilee spoke about the activities of MATforce in our community such as: the March Against Meth Parade, scholarships, rehabilitation, and educational outreach programs. MATforce recently received national recognition by winning the 2009 National Association of Counties Achievement Award.

To conclude the day, Yavapai County Attorney Sheila Polk spoke to the group about both her experience at Yavapai County and with MATforce. Sheila was instrumental in the formation of MATforce. While she seeks to prosecute criminals in our county, she also seeks to rehabilitate criminals. The group also learned about Sheila’s involvement in creating an ethics program that was presented to Arizona prosecutors. She hopes the program will eventually be taught to local law enforcement agencies.

If you are an individual interested in learning about community issues and enhancing your leadership skills, Verde Valley Leadership is currently accepting applications for it’s new class. VVL is constantly seeking diverse individuals who possess a commitment to leadership, desire to positively affect their community, and have the vision and energy to join this important local leadership program. For more information on VVL or to register in the program, contact Jodie Filardo with the City of Sedona at 928.203-5040 or via email at JFilardo@SedonaAZ.gov. Please visit www.vvleadership.com for more information.