Administration - Office of the Chief

Jesse Crabtree, Chief of Police

Chief Jesse Crabtree began his career in Public Safety in 1996 with the Hopi Law Enforcement Services located in Northern Arizona. From there he spent the next 23 years with the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation Police Department. He joined the Gila River Police Department in February of 2020 as a Commander.

During Crabtree’s time working in Indian Country Law Enforcement, he has come to place incredible value on public safety and community partnerships that will increase the quality of life for the Gila River Indian Community. Crabtree stated, “As the Chief of Police, we will work towards providing professional service, with integrity and teamwork."

Chief Crabtree holds a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and a Master of Administration degree from Northern Arizona University.

William T. Morago, Assistant Chief of Police

Jeffrey Hunter, Commander

Criminal Investigations Bureau

Commander Jeffrey Hunter has been a dedicated member of the Gila River Police Department since January 2000. Throughout his career, he has served in various capacities, including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Field Training Coordinator, Lieutenant, and now Commander. In his current role, Commander Hunter oversees the Criminal Investigations Bureau, leading efforts to ensure justice and public safety within the community.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Commander Hunter brings discipline and commitment to his leadership. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Policy and a Master’s Degree in Leadership, both from Grand Canyon University. Additionally, he is a graduate of the University of Phoenix and has attended advanced training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, GA.

Beyond his professional achievements, Commander Hunter is deeply committed to community service. He has been a volunteer mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona since 2019 and was honored as the Site-Based Big Brother of the Year in January 2020. His passion for mentorship extends to his role as Vice President of the Doeg Nelson chapter of the Arizona National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (AZ NOBLE), where he advocates for diversity and leadership in law enforcement.

Commander Hunter’s dedication to excellence and community impact continues to be a cornerstone of his service with GRPD.

Tamatha Villar, Commander

Administrative Support Bureau

Commander Tamatha Villar is a 28-year law enforcement veteran, currently serving as the Administrative Support Services Bureau and SWAT Commander for the Gila River Police Department. She previously held leadership roles at the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, where she retired as Captain of the Criminal Investigations Bureau, and as Chief of Police for the Hayden/Winkleman Police Department.

Tamatha has been recognized for her commitment to victims of domestic violence, homicide, human trafficking, and child abuse, earning accolades such as Officer of the Year, Detective of the Year, multiple Meritorious Conduct Medals, and the AZ Department of Education’s CTE Business Partner of the Year Award.

An advocate for youth, women in law enforcement, and victims’ rights, Tamatha speaks at conferences and community events on topics such as leadership, investigations, and violence against women. She has served on numerous boards and task forces, including the Arizona POST Board and the Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women’s Task Force.

Throughout her career, Tamatha has overseen critical areas such as criminal investigations, patrol, victim services, and dignitary protection. She was instrumental in establishing Critical Incident Stress Management and Peer Support Programs and managed the construction of the Gila River Police Department’s new headquarters.

A proud graduate of the FBI National Academy, Tamatha also holds a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and a Master’s in Human Relations/Counseling, along with certifications in Criminal Justice Education and Management. She remains dedicated to law enforcement excellence, community engagement, and justice for all victims.

William Lewis, Acting Commander

Patrol Division

Lt. William Lewis has been a dedicated servant to the Gila River Indian Community for over 12 years, following his graduation from the prestigious ALEA Police Academy. Throughout his distinguished career, Lt. Lewis has demonstrated exceptional leadership and versatility, holding various key positions including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, General Instructor, Ranger, Sergeant, and Field Training Coordinator. He currently serves as Lieutenant, where he leverages his extensive experience and expertise to drive departmental excellence.

Lt. Lewis’s commitment to education and professional development is reflected in his impressive academic achievements. He holds an Associate’s degree in Law Enforcement Technology from Rio Salado College, a Bachelor’s degree in Justice Studies with an emphasis in Criminal Justice Administration from Northern Arizona University, and is on track to earn his Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Criminal Justice Administration from Northern Arizona University in December 2024.

In addition to his professional role, Lt. Lewis has a unique and profound connection to the community he serves. He is not only a dedicated member of the Gila River Police Department but also a proud member of the Gila River Indian Community from Blackwater in District 1. This dual role fosters a deep sense of pride and responsibility, allowing him to serve with a level of cultural understanding and compassion that enhances his effectiveness as a law enforcement leader. His community roots and unwavering commitment to public service make him a trusted and respected figure within the Gila River Indian Community. 

Police Department - District Liaisons

The Gila River Police Department is committed to serving and protecting the Gila River Indian Community, which spans seven districts. Each district has a dedicated GRPD Officer who serves as a liaison between the department and community members. These officers work closely with district community groups focused on crime prevention, help organize neighborhood watch programs, and regularly attend district meetings to address local concerns.

At GRPD, we prioritize community engagement, aiming to build strong relationships while ensuring the well-being of all who live and work within the Gila River Indian Community. Together, we strive to create a safer, united community.

District 1

Celestina Perez, Lieutenant

Work: (520) 610-3683

Email: Celestina.Perez@gric.nsn.us

District 2

Caroline Johnson, Lieutenant

Work (520) 562-7500

District 3

William Lewis, Acting Commander

Work: (520) 796-7500

District 4

Alex Belsan, Lieutenant

Work: (520) 562-7500

District 5

Jeff Faulkner, Acting Lieutenant

Work: (520) 796-7500

District 6

Jeff Hunter, Commander

Work: (520) 562-7500

District 7

Vladislav Janjusic, Sergeant

Work: (520) 562-7500