The unit's main craft, a UH-1V "Huey" rotorcraft helicopter, was obtained through the military surplus program[6] and is equipped with a hoist to assist in rescues.

[7] The Air Unit regularly flies Operation Stonegarden missions,[8] assisting the U.S. Border Patrol in its efforts.

ASU typically patrols a five-mile stretch of land between the reservation and I-8, attempting to apprehend those crossing illegally there.

[10] This desert area south of Maricopa, situated approximately 70 miles north of the border, sees some of the most drug trafficking activity in the Southwest.

[13] Four teams support Patrol with the interdiction of drugs entering and passing through Pinal County along major roadways and highways.

The PCNTF is tasked with investigating, prosecuting, disrupting and dismantling individuals and/or groups involved in possession, sales, manufacturing, cultivating, trafficking and smuggling of illegal drugs in or through Pinal County and surrounding areas.

[18] The SAR Unit searches for children,[19] the elderly,[20] unprepared and injured hikers,[21] lost hunters and downed aircraft.

[23] Inmates are offered several pre-release programs to reduce recidivism, including tablets to help advance their education,[24] free tattoo removal to increase chances of employment,[25] and a designated wing for veteran inmates, called the Housing Unit for Military Veterans, or HUMV.