Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has announced the indictment of Walter Alphonso Ringfield, a former election worker, on multiple charges including three felonies and one misdemeanor. Ringfield, born in July 1996, faces serious allegations as detailed below:
- One count of Computer Tampering (Class Two Felony)
- One count of Theft (Class Three Felony)
- One count of Burglary (Class Four Felony)
- One count of Criminal Trespassing (Class Three Misdemeanor)
The indictment results from investigations conducted by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Phoenix Police Department (PPD). The specific incidents leading to the charges are as follows:
On May 20, 2024, surveillance footage captured Ringfield removing $9,500 worth of vintage jewelry from mannequins at the Phoenix Art Museum. The case, handled by the Phoenix Police Department, was submitted to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office on July 1.
On June 15, 2024, Ringfield was again caught on video surveillance, this time at the Arizona state legislature. He was seen walking through a secured area and taking seven challenge coins and three coasters. The Department of Public Safety submitted this case on July 1.
On June 20, 2024, while employed at the Maricopa County Elections Department, Ringfield allegedly took a security fob from the Maricopa County Tabulation and Elections Center (MCTEC). The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office submitted this case on June 24.
Ringfield is currently in custody and is being held without bond. The charges against him highlight significant security breaches and theft incidents across multiple high-security locations. This case underscores the importance of stringent security measures and vigilant oversight, especially within critical public institutions.
Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell emphasized the gravity of the charges, stating that the legal process will proceed to ensure justice is served. The Maricopa County Attorney’s Office continues to work diligently to uphold the law and protect public assets.
