Gila River Police Department

06/07/2026

06/01/2026

Two years ago today, our community experienced a tragedy that forever changed countless lives.

On June 1, 2024, Officer Joshua R. Briese was killed in the line of duty while serving the Gila River Indian Community. During the same tragic incident, Alicen Apkaw also lost her life. Today, we pause to remember them both, honor their memories, and reflect on the profound impact their loss continues to have on their families, friends, and our community.

Two years later, the pain remains, but so does our commitment to remember. We remember Josh's dedication, his sacrifice, and the impact he made in such a short time. We remember Alicen and the life that was taken too soon.

Please join us in keeping the Briese family, the Apkaw family, and all those affected by this tragedy in your thoughts today.

Gone, but never forgotten.

06/01/2026

🚔 Don't forget! Join us this Wednesday for our Women in Law Enforcement Informational Session.

Have you ever considered a career in law enforcement but weren't quite sure where to start? Come meet and chat with the women of the Gila River Police Department and learn about the hiring process, training, career opportunities, and their personal experiences in the profession.

Our officers and professional staff will be on hand to answer your questions and provide insight into what a career in law enforcement is really like.

🎓 High school students are encouraged to attend as well! If you're interested in learning how to prepare for a future career in law enforcement after graduation, we'd love to talk with you.

We look forward to seeing you there and helping you explore the many opportunities available in public safety!

👮‍♀️ 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝. 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭.👮‍♀️

Ever thought about a career in law enforcement—but still have a few questions before taking that first step?

The Gila River Police Department is proud to host a special Informational Session for Women who are considering a future in policing. This is your chance to connect with the women of our department, hear their experiences, and get real answers to your questions.

Whether you’re curious about the testing process, the academy experience, or simply how to get started—we’ve got you covered.

📍 Gila River Police Department Headquarters
🗓 Wednesday, June 3, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Come as you are, bring your questions, and take the first step toward a career with purpose.

Your future badge could start here. 👮‍♀️✨

👉 Reserve your spot today: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/grpdwomeninlawenforcement

05/29/2026

To our brothers and sisters at the Gilbert Police Department thank you for honoring Gila River Officer Josh Briese this morning and for welcoming members of our department to stand beside you.

The bond of law enforcement reaches far beyond patches and jurisdictions—we are family. Josh will never be forgotten, and his sacrifice will continue to unite us in service, strength, and remembrance. Together, we will continue to honor his memory and carry his legacy forward. 💙🖤

05/25/2026

Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

As we spend time with loved ones, let us pause to remember those who never made it home and the families who carry their memory every day.

We remember. We honor. We will never forget. 🇺🇸

05/18/2026

🚨🚨🚨UPDATE: LOCATION CHANGE COMMUNITY MEET & GREET: CHIEF OF POLICE FINALISTS

Please note there has been a location change for the Meet and Greet with the finalists for the position of Chief of Police.

The event has been moved from the District 4 Gymnasium to the DISTRICT 5 MULTI-PURPOSE GYMNASIUM and will begin at 1:30 p.m.

📍 District 5 Multipurpose Gymnasium
🗓 May 23, 2026
⏰ 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

We look forward to seeing the community there as we welcome and engage with the candidates.
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🚨 COMMUNITY MEET & GREET: CHIEF OF POLICE FINALISTS🚨

The Gila River Indian Community is invited to attend a special Community Meet & Greet for the finalists seeking to serve as the next Chief of Police for the Gila River Police Department.

📍 District 4 Multipurpose Gymnasium - CHANGED TO D5
🗓 May 23, 2026
⏰ 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

This event provides community members an opportunity to meet the finalists, learn more about their backgrounds and perspectives, and engage in meaningful conversations as the selection process continues.

During the first portion of the event, each candidate will be allotted 10 minutes to formally introduce themselves to attendees and share their backgrounds, experience, and leadership philosophies. Following the introductions, the candidates will mingle with the public for the remainder of the event.

Community members will also have the opportunity to provide feedback in person to the Community Managers or Public Sector Search, as well as submit written comments and notes to be provided to Mr. Gary Peterson.

We encourage community members to attend, ask questions, and take part in this important process for the future of public safety within the Gila River Indian Community.

05/15/2026

Today, on Peace Officers Memorial Day,

We remember you.
We honor you.
We carry you with us always.

05/14/2026

** UPDATE AT 2:07PM: SR347 IS BACK OPEN! **

🚧 ROAD CLOSURE ALERT 🚧

State Route 347 northbound is CLOSED north of Maricopa due to a crash just after Casa Blanca Road.

Please avoid the area, expect delays, and use alternate routes if possible. Motorists are asked to slow down and use caution as emergency crews work the scene.

We will provide updates as they become available.

UPDATE 1:57 P.M.: SR 347 northbound has reopened.

The closure was due to a crash after Casa Blanca Road.

🚧🚧🚧

*CLOSURE*

6:48 A.M. State Route 347 northbound is CLOSED north of Maricopa.

The closure is due to a crash after Casa Blanca Road.

To check current traffic conditions, use the AZ511 app:
📱 Apple: https://tinyurl.com/AZ511Apple
📱 Android: https://tinyurl.com/AZ511Android

05/11/2026

💙 Last week marked the final week of the Big Brothers Big Sisters “Bigs in Blue” Program with the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gila River Indian Community - Sacaton Branch. 💙

This incredible program pairs youth with law enforcement officers and public safety employees to foster one-on-one relationships, build trust, and provide positive role models within the community. Through mentorship, shared experiences, and meaningful connections, the program helps bridge the gap between public safety and the communities we proudly serve.

Pictured are members of the Gila River Police Department and Gila River Health Care - EMS who volunteered as “Bigs” to their “Littles.” We are extremely grateful to the employees who dedicated their time each month to simply show up — playing games, participating in activities, offering encouragement, and being a consistent and caring presence in the lives of these children.

We also want to thank the parents and families who allowed their children to participate in this program. By investing in opportunities like this, you are helping ensure your children have positive role models and supportive relationships that can impact the rest of their lives.

Sometimes the smallest moments — a conversation, a game, a laugh — can make the biggest difference. 💫