No one should lose their life—or their dignity—because a public agency failed to do its job.

Yet that's exactly what’s happening in Maricopa County. Vulnerable adults placed under the care of the Public Fiduciary’s Office have suffered catastrophic harm due to chronic neglect, understaffing, and a shocking lack of oversight.

One man lost his leg and half his intestines after an untreated infection went unnoticed. Another died alone on scorching pavement after missing psychiatric care and going unreported as missing. A third, just 18 years old, fatally overdosed weeks after being released into an unsafe environment despite clear signs of high need.

These are not isolated incidents. Attorneys, court-appointed advocates, and even county staff have spoken out: the system is broken. With over 2,000 open cases and only 68 staff—many not even in direct care roles—the math speaks for itself. Compared to other counties nationwide, Maricopa’s fiduciaries are stretched far too thin to provide the level of care these individuals desperately need.

The county has increased funding slightly, but it’s not enough. And until there’s public accountability, vulnerable people will continue to fall through the cracks.

We, the undersigned, call on:

• The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to authorize an independent investigation into the Public Fiduciary’s Office, focusing on recent failures and systemic risks.
• The Arizona State Legislature to pass laws establishing firm caseload limits, mandatory reporting standards, and stricter performance reviews for all public fiduciaries.
• The Arizona Supreme Court’s Probate Oversight Authority to enhance court scrutiny and oversight in guardianship cases, especially where wards lack family support.

These adults have no one else to speak up for them. It’s our collective responsibility to ensure that their rights, safety, and humanity are never again neglected by the very people entrusted to protect them.

Sign this petition to demand transparency, reform, and justice.

Photo: Diannie Chavez/The Republic