Contact us: 

Main Lobby:
11000 N. La Cañada Drive

24 Hour Non-Emergency:
(520) 229-4900

Community Resources Unit:
Sun City Substation
1171 E. Rancho Vistoso Blvd., Suite 115
(520) 229-5080
cru@orovalleyaz.gov

IRS Tax Scams

Tax season is a busy time not only for taxpayers, but also for scammers.  Each year, the Internal Revenue Service releases its “Dirty Dozen” list, highlighting the most common tax-related scams targeting individuals and businesses.  As people prepare their returns, criminals often take advantage of confusion and urgency surrounding tax deadlines.

One of the most common scams involves IRS impersonation.  Fraudsters send emails, text messages, or social media messages claiming to be from the IRS.  These messages may warn of a problem with a tax return or promise a refund if the recipient clicks a link and enters personal information.  In reality, the link leads to a fake website designed to steal Social Security numbers, bank details, or login credentials.

Collection scams are also widespread.  In these schemes, callers claim to represent the IRS and demand immediate payment for supposed unpaid taxes.  They may threaten arrest or legal action if the payment is not made right away.  The IRS emphasizes that it generally initiates contact with taxpayers through official letters, not threatening phone calls or text messages.

Another growing concern is misleading tax advice circulating on social media.  Some online posts promote so-called “tax hacks” that encourage people to claim credits they do not qualify for or submit false information to inflate refunds.  Following this advice can lead to penalties, audits, or criminal charges.

To help protect yourself this tax season:

• Be cautious of unsolicited emails, texts, or social media messages claiming to be from the IRS.
• Do not click on suspicious links or download attachments related to unexpected tax notices.
• Remember that the IRS typically initiates contact by mail, not by threatening phone calls or texts.
• Work only with reputable tax professionals who sign the tax returns they prepare.
• Be skeptical of “tax hacks” or refund promises on social media that sound too good to be true.

Staying informed and vigilant can help ensure a safe and stress-free tax season.

For more information, visit: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/dirty-dozen-tax-scams-for-2026-irs-reminds-taxpayers-to-watch-out-for-dangerous-threats

Home Security Cameras 101

Home security cameras are one of the most effective tools homeowners can use to deter crime, monitor activity, and gather evidence if something goes wrong.  Modern systems do far more than record video — they allow you to monitor your property in real time, receive motion alerts, and review footage from virtually anywhere using a smartphone app.

One of the primary benefits of security cameras is deterrence.  A visible camera signals that a home is monitored, which can discourage opportunistic crimes such as package theft, vehicle break-ins, and burglaries.  Many newer models include motion-activated lights, sirens, and instant mobile notifications that draw attention to suspicious activity.  If a crime does occur, recorded video can provide valuable evidence for law enforcement investigations and insurance claims.

There are several types of cameras to consider.  Wireless Wi-Fi cameras are popular for their ease of installation and flexible placement, often operating on rechargeable batteries.  Wired DVR or NVR systems connect multiple cameras to a centralized recorder and are often preferred for comprehensive, whole-property coverage.  Outdoor cameras are built to withstand heat and weather, while indoor cameras monitor interior spaces.  Video doorbells combine a camera and doorbell into one device, allowing you to see and speak with visitors at your front door.  Floodlight cameras add bright lighting to illuminate and record activity in driveways and backyards.

Storage is another important consideration.  Some cameras use local storage, such as microSD cards or a hard-drive-based recorder inside the home.  This option does not rely on internet service and avoids subscription fees.  Other systems use cloud storage, automatically uploading footage to secure off-site servers.  Cloud storage typically requires a monthly subscription but protects recordings even if a camera is damaged or stolen.

Security cameras vary widely in price depending on features and capabilities.  Basic indoor cameras often start around $30–$60.  Mid-range outdoor cameras with higher resolution and advanced motion detection typically range from $80–$200.  Premium models — including 4K cameras, floodlight units, and multi-camera kits — often cost $200 and up.

Several well-known manufacturers offer reliable products across this price spectrum, including Ring, Blink, Google Nest, Arlo, Wyze, SimpliSafe, ADT, and Vivint.  Each offers different features, storage options, and price points to fit a variety of household needs.

Choosing the right system depends on your property layout, budget, and desired level of monitoring.  Understanding these basics will help you select a camera system that enhances both security and peace of mind.

For more information and resources, visit:
https://www.safewise.com/blog/category/home-security/
https://www.cnet.com/home/security/best-home-security-camera/

OV Safe Return Program

Did you know that the Oro Valley Police Department offers a program specifically designed for vulnerable members of our community who may wander away from home?  The OV Safe Return program is a community resource service for vulnerable individuals who live, work, attend school, or receive treatment in the Town of Oro Valley.  This includes, but is not limited to, children or adults who have a diagnosis of:

• Alzheimer’s
• Dementia
• Autism
• Down Syndrome

The Safe Return program provides parents and care-givers with a way to share crucial information with police officers who may respond to calls involving these individuals.  The registration form collects information about the vulnerable person, their parent or responsible caregiver, and additional emergency contacts.

The form also gathers details that can help responding officers interact more effectively with the individual, such as preferred communication methods, special interests or hobbies, places they may be drawn to, and suggestions for the best way for officers to approach them.  Current photographs of the registered individual are also collected to assist officers in locating the person if they ever go missing.

If you have any questions or are interested in registering someone in the OV Safe Return program, please contact the OVPD Community Resources Unit at CRU@orovalleyaz.gov or (520) 229-5080.

Question & Answer

Have you ever wanted to ask a police officer a question but never had the opportunity to do so?  Ever wondered why a cop did what they did?  Have a question about traffic?  Here is your chance to send in your questions, and we may publish them with an answer from an officer with expertise in that area.

Upcoming Events

Dispose A Med
Date:  Saturday, April 25, 2026
Time:  10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location:  OVPD Main Station (11000 N. La Cañada Drive)
Details:  Pills only.  No liquids, creams, aerosols or sharps.  Please leave medications in their original containers.

TOV Shred Event
Date:  Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time:  8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Location:  OV Marketplace (11785 N. Oracle Road, near Happy Joe’s Pizza)
Details:  Each vehicle may bring up to 8 medium sized boxes that will be shredded on site for FREE!

R.A.D. Women’s Self-Defense
Date:  Saturday, May 2 and May 9, 2026
Time:  8 a.m. – 1 p.m. each day
Location:  Revealed upon registration to class
Details:  A free 12-hour program that teaches awareness, risk reduction and self-defense strategies to women of all ages.  Must attend both days.  Email us at CRU@orovalleyaz.gov to register.

Sign Up for CrimeFighter Newsletter! If you would like to automatically receive the CrimeFighter Newsletter via email every month, scan the QR code below or click HERE to sign up.  Remember to select the “Public Safety & Crime Prevention” box. Alternatively, you can sign up by going to the Town of Oro Valley website (orovalleyaz.gov), click on the News tab, and click on “Subscribe to get news and event updates”.  Remember to select the “Public Safety & Crime Prevention” box.

Answer:  Yes.  A.R.S. § 28‑771 requires drivers to follow lane markings and traffic control devices while operating motor vehicles.  Turn lanes are intended exclusively for turning in the direction indicated.  Drivers must enter the correct lane for the movement they intend to make—straight, left, or right—before reaching the intersection.  At the intersection you are referring to (Rancho Vistoso Blvd. and Oracle Road), there is a dedicated right turn lane, which is where vehicles should be turning from.  They should not be on the other side of the white fog line in the “bike lane”.  See photo below left.

At some intersections where there is not a dedicated right turn lane, you will find that the white fog line becomes dashed lines as it approaches the intersecting road.  In those cases, it is permissible for a vehicle to pull into that area (when safe to do so) to make the right turn.  See photo below right.

If you have a question you would like to submit, email it to CRU@orovalleyaz.gov.

Crime Statistics (Oct – Dec 2025) 

The following statistics are provided to inform citizens of criminal activity occurring in your community.