Prosecutor Caught in Disturbing Target Store Incident

Arizona prosecutor scandal: Chief Deputy County Attorney Paul Correa was caught secretly filming a 12-year-old girl in a Target store, then later found in his car watching the footage with his pants down and looking disheveled.

Cochise County Attorney Lori Zucco today announced the immediate termination of Paul Correa, Chief Civil Deputy County Attorney, following an investigation by the Sierra Vista Police Department stemming from an off-duty incident on the evening of December 17, 2025, at the Target store located on Highway 90 in Sierra Vista.

Due to conflicts of interest, the case is being handled by La Paz County Attorney Rachel Shackelford. Conflict counsel was arranged by Elizabeth Ortiz, the Executive Director of the Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys’ Advisory Council, APAAC.

After being informed of the nature of the allegations and meeting with Sierra Vista Police Department this morning, Zucco made the decision to terminate Correa’s employment immediately. She also met with the victims, Sierra Vista Police Department Command staff, and Sheriff Mark Dannels this afternoon, prior to Correa’s termination.

“The allegations in this case are deeply disturbing, particularly for an officer of the court and public employee entrusted with the public’s confidence, “Zucco said. “As a career prosecutor for more than 20 years, I have zero tolerance for alleged conduct that so fundamentally violates the standards of this office. While Mr. Correa is entitled to due process in the criminal justice system, he can no longer serve in any capacity in my office.”

Zucco, who was elected by Cochise County voters in November 2024, emphasized that the termination reflects the seriousness of the allegations and the obligation of her office to maintain the highest professional and ethical standards.

Zucco noted the termination is an employment decision and is separate from the ongoing criminal investigation which will be handled independently by the La Paz County Attorney’s Office. The Cochise County Attorney’s Office will not comment further on the pending case. SOURCE