Town of Sahuarita employee Joe Marti, 33, has been arrested in connection with a series of thefts of town resources and property. Town losses related to the charges against Joe Marti are estimated to be between $10,000-$20,000.

On Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, Streets Superintendent Joe Marti was booked into the Pima County Jail on one count of trafficking in stolen property (Class 2 Felony); one count of trafficking in stolen property in the second degree (Class 3 Felony); two counts of theft (Class 6 Felony); and eight counts of fraudulent schemes and artifices (Class 2 Felony).

Near the end of 2024, town officials received a tip related to the theft and pawning of a surveyor device (valued at $5,900), as well as repeated use of government-issued fuel cards to fill personal vehicles. Following a thorough investigation by the Sahuarita Police Department, probable cause was established to pursue charges for both complaints. Additional accusations are still under investigation.

Joe Marti has been an employee of the Town of Sahuarita in the Public Works department since 2019. In his Streets Superintendent role, he oversees work related to the construction and maintenance of town streets. 

Marti is currently on administrative leave. On Jan. 21, he received notice of intent to terminate his employment, pending his classified employee rights to due process. 

The investigation is active and ongoing.  At this time, the evidence related to the current charges against Marti suggests that he acted alone. While no other employees have been charged, the Sahuarita Police Department is inquiring into other issues of possible wrongdoing and will continue to investigate those concerns. 

Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the SPD by calling 520-351-4900 or 520-344-7000 Monday-Friday during business hours or through our TIP Line at 520-445-7847.