Mesa officer accused of tipping off suspect before SWAT raid, records show

MESA, Ariz. — Mesa Police Department Officer Edward Fire is facing a criminal investigation tied to allegations of hindering the prosecution of Jason Rawlings, who is accused of selling drugs, according to a complaint filed on April 23.

Fire, on or about March 10, intentionally hindered the prosecution of Rawlings, accused of “Narcotics Drugs for Sale”, and did assist him by knowingly warning him of impending prosecution, the direct complaint states.

Court records show that Fire notified Rawlings via phone that a SWAT raid was taking place at his home near Main Street and Country Club Drive.

Records also show that there was probable cause that Fire talked to people in the past about Rawlings and Rawlings’ alleged girlfriend, Michele Plagmann, being involved in drugs, according to interviews conducted with associates.

According to court records, Rawlings’ cell phone was obtained, and data from August 1, 2025, to March 10 showed “300 text communications” between him and Fire. Records indicate that “frequent communications” appear to be about drug sales.

The Chandler Police Department is leading the investigation into the Fire.

“The department is fully cooperating with the Chandler Police Department and will continue to provide any assistance necessary to support a thorough and objective investigation,” the Mesa Police Department said. “In addition to the ongoing criminal investigation, the Mesa Police Department has initiated its own internal investigation.”

Fire is on “administrative suspension” and “unpaid leave pending the outcome of both the criminal and administrative reviews”.

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