Glendale Police Commander Jay O’Neill Arrested — Now Fights Extradition To North Carolina

A commander with the Glendale Police Department spent Thursday morning in handcuffs — in the parking lot of State Farm Stadium.

Jay O’Neill, 55, was taken into custody by Arizona DPS on a warrant out of North Carolina. Court records in Jackson County show two indictments with six combined counts of second degree exploitation of a minor. Court documents allege he received photos and a video involving a 15-year-old girl — and the alleged conduct happened in December 2025, while he was still a serving commander.

That night, a Maricopa County judge set his bond at $75,000 cash. And when a judge gave him the choice — waive extradition or fight it — O’Neill chose to fight. That forces a Governor’s-warrant process between Arizona and North Carolina that can drag on up to 90 days while he sits in a Maricopa County cell.

Glendale PD confirms he is no longer employed with the city. Arizona’s Family reports he resigned amid the investigation. A department spokesperson refuses to say more, calling the case active.

So the question nobody is answering: how does a small sheriff’s office in the mountains of western North Carolina build a case against a metro Phoenix commander? Neither state is talking.

He’s been indicted, not tried — presumed innocent unless proven otherwise.

Sources: FOX 10 Phoenix, Arizona’s Family, ABC15, The Arizona Republic, 12 News

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