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“We are Arizona Law Enforcement…”

Arizonans have always had an independent streak about them, and Arizona Law Enforcement Officers are no different. That is why in 1994 the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association (PLEA) saw the need for a strong statewide voice for independent Arizona Law Enforcement Officers and the Associations that represent them.

PLEA President Mike Petchel began the discussions with several valley Associations about forming a Statewide association. And thus, on October 12th, 1994 the Arizona Police Association (APA) was incorporated. The plank member associations of the APA were the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, the Associated Highway Patrolman of Arizona, the Peoria Police Officers Association, the Mesa Police Association, and the Tucson Police Officers Association.
Soon after, one by one, several other independent valley metro police associations joined the APA making the voice louder and more powerful.

The APA was approached by a group of Arizona Department of Correction Officers who felt their interest where not being represented by their current labor group. The APA recognized the importance of Correction in the overall scope of public safety and agreed to help. The Arizona Corrections Association (ACA) was incorporated in June 2009 with the assistance of the APA and PLEA. As a result, the APA also speaks for county/local detention officers as well.

A major growth in the southern part of the state occurred when the Combined Law Enforcement Association of Arizona (CLEAA) joined the APA in 2012. CLEAA is a multi-association covering southern Arizona including the Arizona Probation Officers Association.

Then in 2015 the Northern Arizona Law Enforcement Association (NALEA) joined the APA bring multiple law enforcement associations with them.

Due to Arizona’s proximity to the southern border and the impact of illegal immigration the National Border Patrol local #2544 (Tucson) and U S Customs and Border Protection CH.16 saw the mutual benefits of APA membership. The APA is a valued partner for these two professional law enforcement associations at the state capital.

Today, the APA is the largest and most powerful legislative voice in Arizona. In addition, many of our member groups belong to the National Association of Police Organization (NAPO) which provides a national voice in Washington for independent Arizona Law Enforcement Officers.

As President of the Arizona Police Association, it is my honor to represent the more than 12,000 law enforcement professionals who serve our state with courage, integrity, and sacrifice. Every day, our officers, whether in large metropolitan agencies or small rural communities, stand on the front lines to protect the people of Arizona.

 

The mission of the Arizona Police Association is simple but vital: to ensure that every law enforcement officer has a strong voice, meaningful protections, and the support they need to serve with confidence. We are committed to advocating for policies that strengthen public safety, advancing resources that support officers and their families, and building partnerships that connect law enforcement with the communities we proudly serve.

 

Our dedication goes beyond contracts, legislation, or benefits. It is about honoring the profession of policing, standing by the men and women who wear the badge, and ensuring that their service is respected and their sacrifices are never forgotten.

 

As we move forward, the APA remains steadfast in its mission: protecting those who protect Arizona. Together, with our members, our elected leaders, and our communities, we will continue to advance a safer, stronger future for all.

– Sincerely, Darrell Kriplean, President