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👮‍♂️ Maricopa County officials select interim sheriff 🍕 Local restaurants celebrate National Pizza Day and more...

Gilbert Local Pulse | Issue #083

Author

Lloyd Heath
February 09, 2024

In this issue of Gilbert Local Pulse

🌤️ Gilbert, AZ Local Weather

📅 Gilbert, AZ and Surrounding Area Events

📈 Gilbert council votes to increase utility rates

👮‍♂️ Maricopa County officials select Russ Skinner to serve as interim sheriff

🚨 Metro Phoenix riddled by thefts linked to South American organized crime groups

⚖️ Scottsdale Attorney Targets "Gilbert Goons" and Parents in Lawsuit Over Teen Assaults

🚫 Former Chandler woman sentenced for intending to use COVID funds to support terrorism

🛑 Arizona Senate Committee Advances Bill to Ban Satanic Displays on Public Property

🍕 Local restaurants to celebrate National Pizza Day Feb. 9

🏁 Andretti Indoor Karting & Games announces Chandler grand opening

📚 Gilbert lawyer pens children’s book

🎉 Brock Purdy Way was officially unveiled at Perry High School.

Upcoming and Ongoing

Maricopa County officials select Russ Skinner to serve as interim sheriff

The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has announced the appointment of Deputy Sheriff Russ Skinner as the interim sheriff. This decision follows the departure of former Sheriff Paul Penzone on January 12. Skinner, who stepped in as acting sheriff since Penzone's resignation, emerged as the chosen candidate among three contenders for the interim position.

The selection process also considered Glendale Police Lieutenant Patrick Valenzuela and Jeffrey Kirkham, previously serving as a commander in Apache Junction and as chief in Nogales. Despite a diverse pool of candidates, Skinner secured the role with a majority vote of 4-1, facing opposition from Supervisor Steve Gallardo, the board's lone Democrat.

Expressing his gratitude, Skinner committed to continuing the mission of the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) to protect lives and property, emphasizing collaboration with the department's officers, civilians, and volunteers. His longstanding affiliation with MCSO, dating back to 1990, and his tenure as chief deputy since 2018, were pivotal in his appointment, highlighting his deep understanding of the agency's operations and administrative responsibilities.

Supervisor Gallardo's dissent stemmed from a broader discussion on the sheriff's office's past controversies under Joe Arpaio and the community's desire for reform and trust restoration, signaled by the election of Penzone in 2016. Gallardo voiced his readiness to collaborate with Skinner to mend the lingering distrust among marginalized communities, underlining the importance of continued progress towards inclusivity and fairness.

Skinner's appointment comes amidst preparations for a significant election year in 2024, with Maricopa County, Arizona's largest county, hosting three elections. The new interim sheriff faces the task of upholding Penzone's legacy of professional law enforcement while navigating the county's evolving safety needs. This transition also addresses concerns about political affiliation, with Skinner, originally a Republican, adjusting his party registration to meet the legal requirements for the sheriff's position, reflecting a broader sentiment that law enforcement roles should transcend partisan divides.

As Maricopa County gears up for the 2024 general election to select a full-term sheriff, six candidates have already shown interest in running, promising a competitive race ahead.

Metro Phoenix riddled by thefts linked to South American organized crime groups

Metro Phoenix law enforcement units are joining forces to tackle a surge in thefts attributed to South American organized crime groups. Scottsdale Police Chief Jeff Walther shared on KTAR News 92.3 FM's The Mike Broomhead Show that collaboration is underway between various police departments and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. This partnership aims to create a specialized task force to address the issue more effectively.

The Phoenix Police Department has already made moves to inform the public, issuing an advisory about burglaries linked to these so-called "South American Theft Groups" since December 2023. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or thefts to help gather crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation.

Chief Walther highlighted that this uptick in criminal activity is not isolated to Phoenix but part of a broader national trend affecting numerous communities across the metro area and beyond. Homes adjacent to natural landscapes like washes, deserts, and golf courses have been particularly vulnerable due to their secluded access points.

To mitigate the risk of burglary, law enforcement officials recommend several preventative measures. These include ensuring doors and windows are locked, installing security systems and motion-sensor lights, and maintaining clear visibility around properties by trimming overgrown vegetation.

The items targeted by these theft groups are generally small yet valuable, encompassing cash, jewelry, high-end accessories, and precious metals. This pattern indicates a sophisticated operation focusing on easily transportable goods that yield high returns.

Scottsdale Attorney Targets "Gilbert Goons" and Parents in Lawsuit Over Teen Assaults

In a significant legal move, Scottsdale attorney Richard Lyons has initiated a lawsuit against a group known as the "Gilbert Goons," alongside their parents, for a series of violent attacks perpetrated over more than a year. Filed in Maricopa County Superior Court, the lawsuit targets 17 alleged gang members for their roles in assaulting teenagers, documenting these attacks, and disseminating the footage on social media platforms.

Lyons's legal action also implicates 26 parents of 13 identified members, who were minors at the time of the incidents, holding them accountable for their children's conduct. The attorney characterizes the Goons as predominantly affluent teenagers with a misguided aspiration towards gangsterism, emphasizing the severe consequences of their actions on their victims. These consequences include serious physical injuries ranging from skull and facial fractures to concussions, alongside the psychological trauma inflicted through continued harassment and threats.

The lawsuit draws attention to a particularly brutal incident at a Gilbert In-N-Out Burger in August, representing one of the victims and his father. It also includes claims against two juveniles and an adult involved in this attack, who are not officially recognized as part of the gang, as well as the parents of the juveniles.

Lyons has announced plans to extend the legal challenge with a forthcoming claim related to another assault at a Mesa park in May. However, the scope of the lawsuit goes beyond those directly involved in physical violence. It encompasses individuals who contributed to the attacks by obstructing the victims' attempts to flee, recording the violence, or aiding in the escape of the perpetrators from the crime scenes, under the guise of a conspiracy.

By taking this comprehensive legal approach, Lyons aims to establish accountability not only for the assailants but also for other gang members implicated in similar acts of violence, asserting a collective liability for the harm caused.

Former Chandler woman sentenced for intending to use COVID funds to support terrorism

A former resident of Chandler, Jill Marie Jones, 37, has been sentenced to a prison term of 78 months, which will be followed by 25 years of supervised release, for her attempt to divert COVID-19 pandemic relief funds to support terrorist activities in Afghanistan. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Arizona announced the sentencing on Monday, following Jones's arrest for trying to anonymously transfer money to an individual she believed was affiliated with Al-Qaeda.

Jones admitted to the charge of concealing financial transactions intended to facilitate acts of terrorism. This conclusion came after her arrest, which stemmed from her efforts to disguise her identity while providing financial support for what she thought were terrorist operations.

This case originated from Jones's activities as early as 2019, where she began expressing anti-American sentiments on various social media platforms, voicing her displeasure with the treatment of Muslims by U.S. military forces abroad. Her online interactions in 2020 with someone she presumed was a member of Al-Qaeda—unbeknownst to her, an FBI agent—escalated her involvement. She discussed providing financial support for the acquisition of weapons to be used against American soldiers, seizing on the distribution of COVID stimulus checks as an opportunity to fund these activities.

Jones remarked on the irony of using the U.S. government's stimulus funds, intended to aid Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic, to finance acts of terrorism against the country. Opting for discretion, she chose to purchase a $500 prepaid credit card with her stimulus money, believing this method would obscure the funding's traceability back to her.

The FBI's thorough investigation into Jones's actions led to her capture and subsequent sentencing, underscoring the serious consequences of attempting to support terrorism, especially through the misuse of government-provided relief funds.

Arizona Senate Committee Advances Bill to Ban Satanic Displays on Public Property

A Senate committee in Arizona moved forward with the RESPECT Act on Wednesday, which aims to prohibit satanic symbols on public grounds, sparking a heated debate about religious freedom and the nature of Satanism. Senator Jake Hoffman, a Republican from Queen Creek and the bill's main advocate, argued that satanic displays represent a "desecration of public property" rather than a legitimate religious expression. He emphasized the state's respect for public spaces and the sentiments of its residents as the rationale behind the proposed legislation.

Critics, including members of the Satanic Temple and the Freedom from Religion Association, argued that the bill infringes on their freedom of religion rights. Micah Mangione of the Freedom from Religion Association suggested the bill targets a specific religion and could lead to broader restrictions on religious expression, save for "traditional Christianity."

During a contentious 30-minute hearing that saw about 20 attendees, mostly atheists or members of the Satanic Temple, voices were raised, and some attendees even chanted "Hail, Satan" in opposition. Oliver Spires, identifying as a minister of the Satanic Temple, expressed concern that the bill would hinder their ability to conduct wedding rituals on public property, which often require a satanic altar.

Senator Hoffman maintained that Satanism is not a genuine religion but the "antithesis of religion," arguing that the bill does not violate First Amendment rights as it does not prevent worship but only restricts public displays. Senator Wendy Rogers supported Hoffman, likening the situation to the removal of the Ten Commandments from public buildings and asserting the bill makes a statement against satanic symbols without attacking all faiths.

The only testimony in favor of the bill came from Allen Skillicorn, a councilmember from Fountain Hills, who stated his personal view that Satanism mocks other faiths rather than representing a true belief system. Despite opposition, the bill passed with a 5-1 vote, with Senator Juan Mendez, a Democrat from Tempe, opposing it, calling it a direct attack on religious freedom.

Local restaurants to celebrate National Pizza Day Feb. 9

Pieology, the innovative pizza chain, recently expanded its culinary offerings with the introduction of the "Craft Your Own Calzone" at its new Queen Creek location in Pecan Plaza, 25166 S. Ellsworth Road, Suite B101. Launched in celebration of National Pizza Day, this addition allows patrons across all Pieology locations to enjoy a customizable dining experience. With the option to choose up to five toppings, guests can create their own personalized calzones, complemented by a side sauce of their choice, adding a creative twist to Pieology’s wide-ranging menu.

To mark the launch of this new menu item, Pieology is running a special promotion through its Pies and Perks rewards program until March 19. Members of the Pie Life community who purchase a "Craft Your Own Calzone" or pizza during this period will secure Pies and Perks status until the end of 2024. This membership entails daily perks such as a complimentary side item—be it a beverage, a fresh side salad, or a cookie—with any pizza or calzone purchase. For further details on this promotion and more about Pieology's offerings, visitors are encouraged to explore pieology.com.

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games announces Chandler grand opening

Chandler's eagerly anticipated Andretti Indoor Karting & Games entertainment venue is set to open its doors on February 28th. Situated on Cooper Road, close to Loop 202, Andretti Chandler is kicking off its grand opening with an array of special promotions and giveaways.

To get in on the opening day excitement, the first 50 visitors on Wednesday will receive a complimentary Andretti-branded Yeti tumbler, complete with a "special surprise" adorned with the Andretti logo. The celebration continues into the weekend, with the first 100 guests on Saturday, March 2nd, eligible for a raffle. The grand prize? A free birthday party package at Andretti, worth up to $500. Additionally, 10 lucky winners among those 100 will secure free arcade play for an entire year.

The centerpiece of Andretti Chandler is its multi-level, high-speed electric go-kart track, offering racing enthusiasts the chance to test their skills. This addition is a nod to the Phoenix area's deep-rooted racing heritage, highlighted by Phoenix Raceway in Avondale hosting the concluding NASCAR race for the past five seasons.

Beyond the track, visitors will find a plethora of entertainment options. The venue boasts a "state-of-the-art" arcade, a laser tag arena, bowling lanes, and a motion theater. With a focus on cutting-edge technology, many of the games feature virtual and augmented reality experiences.

Dining options include a restaurant serving American-style cuisine, featuring brick-oven pizza and dishes prepared on an XXL Big Green Egg smoker. A full bar offering local beers and craft cocktails will also be available to guests.

In preparation for its grand opening, Andretti Chandler conducted a hiring event in January to staff up to 300 positions. This expansion is part of a larger growth plan, with new locations in Kansas and Texas expected to create around 1,800 jobs over the next year.

Gilbert lawyer pens children’s book

Gilbert-based attorney and mother Maria Nilmeier has ventured into the world of children's literature with her debut book, "Sam’s Trip to School," available on barnesandnoble.com. The book is a heartfelt ode to both her role as a mother and the town of Gilbert, Arizona, where she has lived for the past five years with her husband, Robert, and their two young daughters, aged 6 and 2.

"Sam’s Trip to School" is inspired by Nilmeier's daily drives with her daughter to school, capturing the essence of their surroundings, including the local neighborhoods on Val Vista, Banner Hospital on Higley, and the Riparian Preserve. Nilmeier embarked on this creative journey with dual intentions: to leave a lasting memory for her daughter and to celebrate the vibrant community of Gilbert.

Initially motivated by her desire to create a memorable keepsake for her firstborn, Nilmeier's project evolved into a broader vision. She wanted her daughter to appreciate and remember the beauty and dynamism of their hometown. Through their morning drives, Nilmeier and her daughter explored the "amazing things in life," from roadside flowers to the bustling life of Gilbert, leading her to capture these moments in a book.

Balancing her career as an attorney and her passion for writing, Nilmeier dedicated early morning hours to her book, a challenging feat, especially during her second pregnancy. The search for the right illustrator brought her to fiverr.com, where she found a collaborator with whom she shared a seamless working relationship, despite their asynchronous communication.

Targeted at children and listeners between the ages of 2 and 5, "Sam’s Trip to School" has resonated well with Nilmeier's daughters, fulfilling her goal of creating an engaging and meaningful story. The positive feedback and support from the community have left Nilmeier feeling both accomplished and blessed.

Looking ahead, Nilmeier has ambitions to expand her literary footprint. She plans to release a Spanish version of "Sam’s Trip to School" and is contemplating a new book that will reflect the unique personality of her second child. With one successful publication under her belt, Nilmeier is excited about the future possibilities of her writing journey.

To discover "Sam’s Trip to School," visit barnesandnoble.com and search for the title.

Brock Purdy Way was officially unveiled at Perry High School.

In a celebratory event at Perry High School, Gilbert Mayor Brigette Peterson unveiled "Brock Purdy Way" on Perry Puma Drive, sparking joy and pride among the Perry football team players on February 8, 2024.

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