Buckeye is ramping up its fight against drug trafficking and illegal marijuana operations with $125,000 in newly approved grants to bolster law enforcement efforts.
The City Council unanimously approved the grants on Nov. 12.
The first grant, worth $30,000, continues Buckeye’s partnership with Maricopa County as part of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) initiative. This program, established by Congress in 1988, brings together federal, state, local and Tribal law enforcement to address drug-related issues. The funding will reimburse overtime costs for BPD officers assigned to the Maricopa County Drug Suppression Task Force, which investigates criminal organizations involved in drug production and distribution.
The second grant, valued at $95,000, funds Buckeye’s continued participation in the Unlawful Medical Marijuana Trafficking Task Force. This intergovernmental agreement with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office supports investigations and training for officers tackling illegal medical marijuana dispensaries, grow operations, and cannabis labs. According to city documents, these activities have been on the rise in Buckeye and Maricopa County.
“Buckeye law enforcement personnel will work through the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office to investigate criminal organizations operating illegal medical marijuana dispensaries, growing marijuana, and operating cannabis labs,” city documents state. “Buckeye’s participation is critical to addressing these growing challenges and ensuring the community’s well-being.”
Two BPD officers are currently assigned to this task force, with grant funding supporting both investigative efforts and specialized training.
BPD officials highlighted the importance of these grants in maintaining public safety.
“The Buckeye Police Department is grateful for funding from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office that allows our agency to collaborate with dedicated law enforcement members to combat drug trafficking operations throughout the Valley,” the department said in a statement. “This partnership strengthens our efforts to protect the community, especially youth, from dangerous drugs and reinforces our commitment to keeping Buckeye safe.”
The grants come at a critical time as Buckeye continues to address the challenges associated with rapid population growth and an uptick in drug-related activity. These funds will enable law enforcement to better target criminal networks while alleviating local resource constraints.
