A Mesa police officer is under criminal investigation after authorities say he compromised an active narcotics case by warning a suspect about an impending search warrant.
The officer, identified as 50-year-old Edward Fire, has been charged with first-degree hindering following allegations that he alerted the target of a March 10 search warrant tied to a drug investigation. The case is being handled by the Chandler Police Department, which described the alleged actions as a serious breach that endangered officers in the field.
In a statement, Chandler police spokesperson Ryan Cody said the officer’s conduct posed a direct threat to law enforcement personnel. According to investigators, tipping off a suspect ahead of a warrant execution can undermine operations and increase the risk of confrontation.
The Mesa Police Department confirmed it is cooperating with the external investigation while launching its own internal review. Officials said Fire has been placed on unpaid administrative suspension as both inquiries move forward.
“The Mesa Police Department holds its employees to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability,” department spokesperson Jesse Macias said, emphasizing that any criminal behavior by officers is taken seriously and addressed accordingly.
The case marks a sharp turn for Fire, who had previously been recognized for his work in law enforcement. In 2024, he was honored for his role in a major Fourth of July operation that resulted in the seizure of more than 200 pounds of fentanyl.
Authorities have not released additional details about how the alleged tip-off occurred or how it may have affected the narcotics investigation. The case remains ongoing, and further legal proceedings are expected as prosecutors review the evidence.
