Senator David Farnsworth, who chairs the Senate Appropriations & Transportation Committee, is raising concerns about an increase in runaway and missing youth from group homes in Arizona. In response to this trend, Senator Farnsworth is working with local officials and law enforcement in Queen Creek to consider a pilot program that would fund two full-time specialized police officers focused on prevention, rapid response, and investigations related to these incidents.
Queen Creek has seen a notable rise in cases of youth going missing from residential treatment campuses and group-home environments. These facilities serve some of the state’s most vulnerable children. The situation has led to renewed discussions about reform and increased accountability within the system. Senator Farnsworth is working with group home representatives and community leaders to develop a strategy based on prevention, response, and investigation. This approach could form the basis for future legislation intended to be used as a model throughout Arizona.
“We must recognize the growing issue of missing and runaway youth in these settings; it is a pressing concern that requires our attention,” said Senator Farnsworth. “By collaborating with local leaders and public safety experts, we can develop thoughtful and effective solutions. This proactive approach is the first step toward enhancing child safety and ensuring a brighter future for our community. My goal is to create legislation that not only addresses these challenges in Queen Creek but also serves as a positive example for communities throughout Arizona, making the protection of our vulnerable population a top priority.”
Queen Creek Vice Mayor Leah Martineau added: “Youth who leave residential treatment and group-care settings without authorization face very real dangers, and Queen Creek is committed to addressing that reality head-on. Our role as a community is to strengthen safeguards, respond quickly when a child is missing, and ensure each situation receives the focused attention it deserves. By working closely with Senator Farnsworth and the Queen Creek Police Department, we are taking meaningful steps to enhance safety and protect our most vulnerable young people. This pilot initiative positions Queen Creek to lead with solutions that can benefit not only our town, but other communities across Arizona as well.”
Warren Petersen was elected as a Republican state senator for Arizona’s 14th Senate District in 2023.
