A Buckeye Police Department officer has been indicted on aggravated assault charges following an independent criminal investigation into two separate use-of-force incidents involving individuals who were already in police custody.
According to Buckeye Police Chief Robert Sanders, Officer Carri Carrico was indicted by a grand jury on May 27, 2026, after an investigation conducted by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. Carrico is currently suspended without pay while the department completes its internal administrative review.
Independent Investigation Requested by Police Chief
Chief Sanders announced that he requested an independent criminal investigation in January 2026 after concerns arose regarding Carrico’s conduct during two separate incidents involving individuals in custody.
According to the department, the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. The results were presented to a grand jury, which subsequently returned indictments charging Carrico with aggravated assault in connection with both incidents.
The Buckeye Police Department has not publicly released specific details regarding the underlying encounters or the circumstances that led to the criminal charges.
Chief Sanders Addresses Community
In a public statement, Chief Sanders said he believes accountability is necessary when officer conduct raises concerns.
“As Chief of Police, I will always stand firm in supporting the men and women of the Buckeye Police Department who honorably serve this community and dedicate their lives to helping people,” Sanders stated.
He further stated that when an officer’s actions conflict with department values and community expectations, leadership has a responsibility to investigate and take appropriate action.
Sanders also thanked the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office for conducting the independent investigation.
Administrative Investigation Ongoing
While the criminal case moves forward, the Buckeye Police Department’s Professional Standards Unit is continuing its administrative review of the two incidents.
According to department officials, Carrico remains on leave without pay pending the outcome of the internal investigation.
The department has indicated that additional information may be released as the process continues.
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Officer Previously Recognized for DUI Enforcement Efforts
Prior to the indictment, Carrico had received public recognition for her DUI enforcement efforts.
In July 2025, the nonprofit Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) honored Carrico with a MADD Hero Award. At the time, the organization and department recognized her work in impaired-driving enforcement and traffic safety initiatives.
According to information previously released by the Buckeye Police Department, Carrico participated in approximately 35 DUI investigations and made 27 DUI arrests during 2024, leading her patrol division in DUI enforcement activity.
The department also noted that she had obtained certification as a Drug Recognition Expert.
Previous Law Enforcement Experience
Before joining the Buckeye Police Department, Carrico served with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department in California.
Media reports indicate that one of her traffic stops was featured on an episode of the television program “COPS” in 2022.
No connection has been alleged between her prior law enforcement service and the current criminal allegations.
Criminal Charges and Due Process
A grand jury indictment represents a formal criminal accusation and is not a determination of guilt.
Under the criminal justice system, Carrico is presumed innocent unless and until the allegations are proven beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
Court records detailing future hearings or trial dates have not yet been publicly announced.
Current Status
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Officer Carri Carrico facing?
According to Buckeye Police Department officials, Carrico has been indicted on aggravated assault charges in connection with two separate incidents involving individuals in police custody.
Who investigated the incidents?
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office conducted the independent criminal investigation after a request from Buckeye Police Chief Robert Sanders.
Has the department released details of the incidents?
No. Officials have not publicly disclosed specific details about the two use-of-force encounters.
Is Carrico still employed by the department?
According to Buckeye Police Department officials, Carrico remains employed but is currently suspended without pay while administrative investigations continue.
Has Carrico been convicted of any crime?
No. The indictment is a criminal accusation. The case remains pending, and Carrico is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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