MCSO arrests suspect who exchanged gunfire with a deputy in West Valley

PHOENIX — A man who fired at a Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office deputy in a small West Valley town earlier this month has been arrested, authorities said Friday.

The deputy responded to a domestic violence call in Youngtown on July 10 and upon arrival, identified two suspects in an apartment believed to have been described in the call, MCSO said in a press release.

As the deputy began giving commands to one suspect, another, identified as James Crespo III, exited the apartment from behind the deputy and fired multiple gunshots toward him, according to the release.

The deputy fired back at Crespo as he fled, evading arrest, MCSO said.

While the suspect fled, he burglarized a house in the city of El Mirage and stole a car from a neighboring resident, MCSO said.

Deputies detained Crespo in Mesa, where he was booked on multiple charges, including aggravated assault, burglary, endangerment and misconduct involving weapons.

“This is another example, one that we now see too frequently in law enforcement, where deputies and officers face deadly encounters by suspects who without engagement or any form of provocation threaten the lives of our law enforcement officers who prioritize the safety of the community over their own,” Sheriff Paul Penzone said.

“I’m thankful that we have men and women who are willing to wear the badge to ensure the safety of others at their own risk. The deputy’s quick tactical response likely saved his life and possibly that of other community members.”

Follow @KTAR923