Allred: GCSO will not ‘inhibit citizens’ via curfew

SAFFORD — As have other law enforcement leaders in the Gila Valley, Graham County Sheriff PJ Allred said there are no plans to use the governor’s curfew order as a way to limit residents’ activity.

In a prepared statement, Allred said, “This order is not intended, nor will be used by the Sheriff’s Office, to stop or inhibit citizens from their evening activities and travel.  The Sheriff’s Office, as well as local law enforcement, will protect the rights of all citizens while maintaining peace in our communities.”

Safford Police Chief Glen Orr and Thatcher Police Chief Shaffen Woods issued similar statements.

Allred also said, “We also want to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the citizens of Graham County.  We have witnessed terrible events in our country and within our state. We express appreciation for the support of this community in these unprecedented times.  On a daily basis we see the quality of people in our Valley and thank you for your assistance in these difficult times.”

Greenlee County Sheriff Tim Sumner said he instructed his deputies to not enforce the curfew order, as well as other COVID-19 related executive orders from Gov. Doug Ducey.

Ducey issued the curfew order Sunday to run for a week. It limits people’s activity outdoors between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. and followed violent protests Saturday in Scottsdale and other areas in Maricopa and Pima counties.

Some local businesses have changed hours of operation as a result of the order.

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