"March 2025 Mesa Crime Report: Burglaries, Thefts, and Ongoing Investigation"

Mesa Police Department Crime Report for March 24-30, 2025

On March 24, officers responded to a burglary at a business near Southern Avenue and Alma School Road. The suspect allegedly forced entry through a rear door and stole cash and electronics. The case remains under investigation.

A vehicle theft occurred on March 25 in the Dobson Ranch neighborhood. The victim reported their 2023 Honda Civic was taken from their driveway overnight. Police are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes.

Officers arrested a 32-year-old male for aggravated assault on March 26 following an altercation at a bar near Main Street and Stapley Drive. The suspect allegedly struck another patron with a beer bottle, causing lacerations requiring medical treatment. The case has been forwarded to the county attorney's office.

On March 27, police investigated a string of vehicle break-ins in the Alta Mesa neighborhood. Multiple residents reported items stolen from unlocked vehicles parked on the street overnight. Detectives are working to identify potential suspects captured on home security cameras.

A robbery was reported at a convenience store near University Drive and Gilbert Road on March 28. The suspect allegedly brandished a weapon and demanded cash from the register before fleeing on foot. Officers are seeking public assistance in identifying the suspect, described as a white male in his 20s wearing a black hoodie and jeans.

Officers responded to Mesa Community College on March 29 for a report of vandalism. Several buildings were found spray painted with graffiti, causing an estimated $5,000 in damage. Campus security is assisting with the ongoing investigation.

On March 30, police arrested two juveniles for shoplifting at Superstition Springs Center. Store security observed the suspects concealing merchandise valued at over $500. The case will be handled through the juvenile court system.

Fraud investigators are looking into multiple reports of credit card skimming at gas stations along Power Road. Residents are advised to monitor accounts closely and report any suspicious activity.

Overall, property crimes showed a slight increase compared to the previous week, while violent crimes remained relatively stable. The police department reminds residents to secure vehicles and homes, and to report any suspicious activity.

In a separate ongoing investigation, police continue to seek information regarding the disappearance of Emily Pike, who was reported missing from a group home in Mesa on January 27, 2025. Pike's body was discovered on February 14 near mile marker 277 off U.S. 60, northeast of Globe. The Gila County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation, with no suspects or arrests reported at this time.

Mesa's overall crime rates remain 5.5% lower than the national average, with 2,193 violent crimes and 9,081 property crimes reported in the most recent annual data. The police department continues to implement strategies aimed at reducing crime and improving community relations.

Anyone with information about these or other crimes is encouraged to contact Mesa Police at 480-644-2211 or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS. Tips can be submitted anonymously. In case of emergencies, always dial 911.