Tempe Police Officer Aaron Smith arrested for theft, burglary of police property

TEMPE, AZ - Tempe police arrested one of their own Saturday morning after reportedly discovering Officer Aaron Smith had been involved with theft of police property.

Smith, who has been with Tempe police for over seven years, was arrested by detectives on multiple charges of theft, burglary and tampering with physical evidence, both misdemeanors and felonies.

According to Tempe police, employees started to notice items missing in early July. Two police bicycles, an equipment case, a GPS, and money were reported missing from different locations.

Approximately $750 was stolen from a lock box that was reportedly discovered on July 20. Forced entry was involved in taking the money.

As the incidents escalated over time, police kept a close eye on the department and who had access to certain locations.

Smith had access to all locations in question, but forced entry was used many times in terms of the thefts and burglaries.

On July 26, an undercover detective turned in a purse with $142 inside it to Smith after officials began to suspect Smith of the crimes. Smith made no attempts to process or impound the money, according to the news release.

Tempe police used a search warrant to enter Smith's home where they found some of the stolen items. He was arrested without incident Saturday morning.

Smith admitted to the crimes and said that he stole the items because he was in a difficult financial situation and that he gave some of the items as gifts.

Police do not believe that any other officers or individuals acted with Smith.

Smith resigned his position as a Tempe Police Officer.

"I want our community to know that all members of the Tempe Police Department remain committed to the highest standards of professionalism, accountability and oversight. In partnership with the Maricopa County Attorney's Office, we will ensure that Aaron Smith is held accountable for his violation of the public's trust," said Chief of Police Tom Ryff in the news release.