Detective Francisco “Danny” Garcia, an 11-year veteran of the Apache Junction Police Department, has been named Officer of the Year by the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police.
Garcia, who is currently assigned to the Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force with the Arizona Department of Public Safety, was chosen as the city officer of the year and subsequently nominated by the region for the state honor. The police chiefs’ association announced the award on Sept. 14 at the association’s state conference in Laughlin, Nev. Garcia was chosen by a panel of retired police chiefs.
“Detective Garcia is a tremendous representative for the Apache Junction police force,” said Thomas E. Kelly, police chief for Apache Junction. “He was a great patrol officer and has become invaluable on the vehicle theft task force. He is that kind of employee that any supervisor strives to have, one that truly enjoys his work and graciously serves the people that have entrusted him the privilege of carrying the badge.”
Garcia has been involved in a number of high-profile undercover cases, which have resulted in numerous indictments and the recovery of stolen vehicles and construction equipment. He was even involved in the apprehension of a bank robbery suspect after inconspicuously approaching the suspect at a movie theatre, preventing the subject from entering a crowded public area.
Garcia was appointed to the task force in 2014 after beginning his law enforcement career with the city of Apache Junction in 2005.