A woman has been charged with a felony after allegedly making violent threats against employees at Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC). According to authorities, 37-year-old Katie Michelle Dickson of Vancouver, Washington, turned herself in to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office earlier this month following the issuance of an arrest warrant.
Officials report that on June 26, 2024, Dickson made 18 separate phone calls to MCACC within about 40 minutes. During these calls, she is accused of threatening arson, murder, and sexual violence toward staff members. Most of these calls were recorded.
“Threats of this nature are unacceptable, and we will do everything in our power to protect staff and hold bad actors accountable,” said Chairman Thomas Galvin, District 2. “Animal Care and Control employees do amazing work every day to find good outcomes for the pets in our care, yet they’re often subjected to unfair criticism and relentless personal attacks online and in person. I hope this arrest serves as a reminder that we have their backs, and we will make sure they have a safe, working environment.”
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office collaborated with the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office during the investigation leading up to the charges.
“This arrest is the result of strong collaboration between our office and our county partners. When someone threatens our community with calls of violence, it is not only disruptive but dangerous,” said Sheriff Jerry Sheridan. “We have zero tolerance for this type of behavior, and we will continue to work to ensure those responsible are held accountable.”
Debbie McKnight, Director of MCACC, added: “The safety of our staff is our top priority, and we take any threats against our team members very seriously. We are grateful to law enforcement for all their hard work on this investigation. We are committed to providing a safe, respectful space for everyone we serve.”
Dickson was released on bond and is scheduled for her next court appearance on October 21.
For access to recordings related to this case or further information regarding public records from local law enforcement agencies in Maricopa County or educational statistics such as mathematics proficiency rates among students (https://www.azed.gov/), contact the relevant departments directly.
