The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office filed a total of 26,923 criminal cases in 2023. The charges reflect a vast range of criminal activity in Phoenix and the surrounding areas. Understanding the nature and frequency of these offenses can provide valuable insights for individuals seeking legal representation and those interested in the criminal justice landscape of Arizona. Below is a detailed look at the most charged offenses in Maricopa County in 2023.
Most Charged Offenses in Maricopa County 2023
1. Drug Offenses
Drug-related offenses top the list as the most charged offense in Maricopa County with a staggering 7,209 charges. These include possession, distribution, and manufacturing of controlled substances. The high number reflects ongoing issues with substance abuse and the enforcement efforts to curb illegal drug activities in the county.
- Top Charges:
- Possession or Use/Possession for Sale/Manufacture/Administration/Acquisition or Administration/Sale or Transportation of Dangerous Drugs
- Possession/Manufacture or Delivery/Advertisement of Drug Paraphernalia
- Possession or Use/Possession for Sale/Manufacture/Administration/Acquisition or Administration/Sale or Transportation of Narcotic Drugs
2. Assault
Assault charges, including aggravated assault and domestic violence, totaled 2,821. These offenses involve physical harm or threats of harm to another person and can range from simple assaults to more severe cases involving weapons or significant injuries.
- Top Charges:
- Aggravated Assault
- Assault
3. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
DUI charges were prevalent in Maricopa County, with 2,453 charges. DUI offenses include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and are strictly enforced due to the potential dangers they pose to public safety.
Top Charges:
- Aggravated Driving or Actual Physical Control While Under the Influence of Intoxicating Liquor or Drugs
- Driving or Actual Physical Control While Under the Influence of Intoxicating Liquor or Drugs
4. Theft
Theft offenses, comprising shoplifting, grand theft, and petty theft, amounted to 1,797 charges. These crimes involve unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent of permanently depriving the owner of it.
- Top Charges:
- Theft of Means of Transportation
- Theft
- Shoplifting
5. Criminal Trespass and Burglary
Criminal trespass and burglary charges reached 1,197. These offenses involve unlawful entry into a property, with burglary typically involving intent to commit a crime within the premises.
- Top Charges:
- Burglary in the Third Degree
- Criminal Trespass in the First Degree
6. Weapons and Explosives
Charges related to weapons and explosives, totaling 1,212, include illegal possession, use, or distribution of firearms and explosives. These offenses are critical for public safety and are prosecuted vigorously.
Top Charges:
- Misconduct Involving Weapons
- Unlawful Discharge of Firearms within Municipality
7. Traffic and Vehicle Regulation
Traffic violations and vehicle regulation offenses accounted for 771 charges. These include driving without a valid license, reckless driving, and other violations that jeopardize road safety.
Top Charges:
- Reckless Driving
- Criminal Speeding
8. Offenses Against Public Order
Public order offenses, with 563 charges, include disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct, and other activities that disrupt public tranquility and safety.
Top Charge:
- Resisting Arrest
9. Escape and Related Offenses
There were 540 charges for escape and related offenses, involving individuals unlawfully fleeing custody, leaving the scene of an accident, or evading law enforcement.
- Top Charges:
- Unlawful Flight from Law Enforcement
- Leaving the Scene of an Accident
10. Robbery
Robbery charges, which involve forcibly taking property from another person, amounted to 404. This offense is more severe than theft due to the element of force or intimidation.
- Top Charges:
- Armed Robbery
- Aggravated Robbery
11. Forgery and Related Offenses
Forgery charges, totaling 309, involve falsifying documents or signatures with the intent to deceive for personal gain.
- Top Charges:
- Forgery
- Aggravated Taking the Identity of Another
12. Sexual Offenses
Sexual offenses, including sexual assault and exploitation, reached 328 charges. These serious crimes often involve significant legal consequences and emotional impact on victims.
- Top Charges:
- Sexual Conduct with a Minor
- Sexual Assault
13. Organized Crime, Fraud, and Terrorism
There were 309 charges related to organized crime, fraud, and terrorism. These complex cases involve coordinated illegal activities, often aimed at financial gain or causing widespread harm.
- Top Charges:
- Organized Retail Theft
- Fraudulent Schemes and Artifices
14. Homicide
Homicide charges, including murder and manslaughter, totaled 276. These are among the most serious criminal charges, involving the unlawful killing of another person.
- Top Charges:
- Murder in the First Degree
- Manslaughter
- Second Degree Murder
15. Family Offenses
Family-related offenses, with 176 charges, include domestic violence, child abuse, and other crimes occurring within familial relationships.
- Top Charges:
- Child or Vulnerable Adult Abuse
- Aggravated Domestic Violence
Most Charges Offenses in Maricopa
Contact Lerner and Rowe Law Group
For those facing criminal charges in Maricopa County, understanding the prevalence and nature of these offenses underscores the importance of seeking experienced legal representation.
At Lerner and Rowe Law Group, our criminal defense attorneys have a proven track record defending against Maricopa County’s most common charges. With our guidance and unwavering advocacy, we’re committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation by calling us 602-667-7777, using our LiveChat, or by filling out our form.