Paul Penzone’s Thoughts on Immigration, Tent City and Racial Profiling

By Lorin McLain

Democratic candidate for Maricopa County Sheriff, Paul Penzone, is giving longtime Sheriff Joe Arpaio a run for his money in the final days leading to the November 8th election. An Arizona Republic/Morrison/Cronkite News poll released this month showed him leading Arpaio by almost 15 points. The poll showed a significant number of voters surveyed opposing two major initiatives supported by Arpaio, which is building a border wall and deporting undocumented immigrants.

Penzone is a 21-year career Phoenix police officer who has served as a law enforcement and security expert since retiring, according to his website. Penzone’s statements on immigration appear to show a stance that sticks to established criteria for enforcement, and shuns any tolerance of racial profiling. His campaign opponent is currently mired in a federal court case where he and others in the department are accused of civil rights violations.

Paul Penzone with Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton

In statements provided to AZLatinos.com, Penzone calls illegal immigration a “complex problem with many variables” that must be dealt with through a comprehensive plan developed with the federal government. Penzone says that “at the local level, we must treat everyone with respect and dignity and never tolerate racial profiling or the violation of civil rights.” The Democratic candidate stresses “consistency amongst all jurisdictions” in regards to laws and how they’re enforced.

If Penzone is elected, there might be an end to the infamous pink garments Arapaio’s issued in tent city. Asked about his views on the outdoor jail, Penzone says he would evaluate its effectiveness, necessity, and efficiency – and he doesn’t believe detention centers should “be used for propaganda and publicity.” He says detention centers “should be safe, disciplined and efficient environments.”

Cima Law Group supporting Paul Penzone (Photo Credit: Cima Law Group)

Penzone’s bio touts an assignment with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, in which he as selected as the national “Task Force Agent of the Year.” It claims he led a federal wiretap investigation that led to the dismantling of a widespread methamphetamine manufacturing and distribution network in Arizona. He’s also credited with helming the Silent Witness program for seven years, most notably during the Baseline Killer and “Serial Shooter” investigations. His tenure there earned him “Crime Stoppers International Program Coordinator of the Year.”

Other career highlights noted are two Distinguished Service Awards and the Phoenix Police Department honoring him with “Supervisor of the Year.” Following his career with Phoenix Police, Penzone served as vice president of national non-profit Childhelp, dedicated to prevention and education services for child victims of abuse, sexual abuse, and neglect.