By Daniel Stefanski |
A freshman Arizona lawmaker is championing the successful inclusion of one of her top priorities in this year’s state budget.
State Representative Julie Willoughby issued a press release on Thursday to announce that she had secured $2.25 million in the budget, which was passed earlier this year, “intended to support the efforts of the Chandler Police Department in their fight against Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC).” The release informed readers that the funding would “empower law enforcement to employ cutting-edge technology and enhance critical investigative capabilities in their pursuit of justice,” adding that the support would “combat heinous offenses that not only impact our state but resonate across the nation.”
In a statement accompanying her announcement, Willoughby said, “Backing those dedicated to upholding the safety and security of our community, and especially our children, is a cornerstone of my commitment as a state representative. This funding will equip the Chandler Police Department with advanced technology and resources dedicated to combatting Internet Crimes Against Children and other high priority criminal cases, safeguarding our communities and preserving the innocence of our youth. By investing in this critical area, we are taking a significant step forward in ensuring a safer Arizona for all.”
Willoughby’s release explained that these funds would “be instrumental in advancing the capabilities of the ICAC department in tackling a range of criminal cases, including human trafficking, cold case sex crimes, homicides, and latent prints.” She shared that there would also be an “implementation of a state-of-the-art criminal justice video management system,” helping the Police Department to “facilitate secure file sharing, enabling collaboration in investigations.”
The release referred to the East Valley legislator as “a strong advocate for the safety and well-being of our communities,” noting that Willoughby “recognizes the urgent need to address the escalating threat of online crimes targeting our most vulnerable population.” Willoughby was appointed to the Arizona House of Representatives by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors earlier this year after a vacancy occurred.
ICAC is under the Chandler Police Department’s Computer Crimes Unit, which “is responsible for investigating internet-related crimes.” According to the Department, there are five investigators and one sergeant in this Unit.
Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
