Lieutenant Ira Williams’ public service career is a testament to his dedication and commitment to public safety. Lt. Williams started his career with the Phoenix Police Department, graduating from the Police Academy in 1974. He then became a detective and joined the Phoenix Police Department’s Homicide Unit in 1996. In January of 2008, approximately twelve years later, he retired from the police force and joined the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office as a Detective in the Investigations Division.  

While working with the Investigations Division, Lt. Williams conducted background checks, assisted with investigations, interviewed witnesses, and supported the work of prosecutors. His coworkers describe him as someone who was always kind and calm, and that his professionalism was “top-notch”. His hard work and dedication weren't unnoticed: he was awarded Detective of the Year in 2015 and a Distinguished Service Award in 2017, and was promoted to Lieutenant in 2018.  

In addition to his work, Lt. Williams was also involved in the community. He participated in educational events at schools to talk about substance abuse and bullying, as well as outreach events such as the Arizona Special Olympics, the Law Enforcement Torch Run, Walk Like MADD, and many others. 

Recently, Lt. Williams was recognized by the Investigations Division for his dedication to duty and quick thinking when he saved someone’s life after an overdose. On March 19, 2021, Lt. Williams was off duty and at his residence. He heard banging on his front door and went outside to investigate. He was immediately alerted that a drug overdose was occurring inside his neighbor’s residence. Realizing the gravity of the situation and the necessity to react quickly,  Lt. Williams immediately went to his MCAO duty vehicle parked in his garage and obtained his department-issued Narcan nasal spray and ran into the residence to aid the overdose victim. As Lt. Williams entered the residence, he found the victim unresponsive inside a bathroom. Lt. Williams removed a single dose of the Narcan nasal spray, positioned the victim on their back on the floor, and provided the Narcan nasal spray. The victim became conscious, although drowsy, and indicated they had taken fentanyl and was treated at the scene by the Gilbert Fire Department.    

Lt. Williams never hesitated to help those in need. Legal Support Supervisor Pearl Nguyen shares that, “until the day he retired, Ira was kind and truly appreciated the job, his compassion and eagerness to help others is unmatched.” This month, after 14 years of service at the County Attorney’s office Lt. Williams retired. From everyone at the County Attorney’s Office, we thank Lt. Williams for his hard work and dedication to public safety and wish him a happy retirement!