In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Lt. Col. Jason Leonard, Assistant Director of the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Criminal Investigations Division, for an in-depth conversation about the critical work happening behind the scenes to keep Arizona’s communities safe.

Lt. Col. Leonard shares his personal journey into law enforcement, from his early years in rural Northern Arizona and service near the Navajo Nation to leading one of the most complex investigative divisions in the state. He discusses how his diverse career experiences, ranging from highway patrol and SWAT leadership to large-scale special events, shaped his leadership philosophy and commitment to mentorship.

Listeners are given an inside look at CID’s four major bureaus, including intelligence, gang enforcement, drug investigations, and major crimes. The conversation highlights the division’s role in combating fentanyl trafficking, dismantling organized criminal networks, investigating road-rage shootings, supporting local agencies, and deploying specialized SWAT and bomb squad resources statewide.

The episode also explores how modern investigative technology such as license plate readers, ballistic databases, and community-provided digital evidence helps solve serious crimes and prevent future violence.

This episode offers a powerful reminder of the dedication, innovation, and teamwork required to protect Arizona, and why the men and women of CID truly represent the best of the best.

Learn more about the Arizona Department of Public Safety: https://www.azdps.gov/department-information