Scottsdale police arrested 73-year-old James Applegate after multiple women came forward alleging sexual assaults, authorities said. Detectives opened an investigation, gathered evidence and, after building what they described as a solid probable-cause case, turned their findings over to prosecutors.
An indictment issued March 27 charges Applegate with felony counts that include sexual assault, kidnapping and sexual abuse. Court documents show a judge set bond at $1,000,000, according to 12 News. Detectives presented the case to prosecutors after determining there was probable cause in several matters involving Applegate, the station reported.
"Court records show Applegate has a criminal history in Maricopa County and briefly spent time in an Arizona prison for an assault offense," the 12 News report said. The outlet also reported that investigators uncovered earlier allegations dating to 2014 and 2017 and that multiple complaints were filed in 2025.
Investigators say the probe spanned years
According to Scottsdale detectives, the case widened after a reported abuse in 2022. As additional women came forward with similar accounts, investigators began tying together older allegations with the newer reports, building what they say is a more complete picture of the claims against Applegate.
Those reports ultimately prompted detectives to bring a broader case to the county prosecutor, which led to the recent indictment.
How the case moves through court
The indictment moves the case into Maricopa County Superior Court for arraignment and a review of the $1,000,000 bond, in line with standard court procedures. Per Maricopa County Superior Court, defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty and have the right to counsel at every stage of the proceedings.
How to tip investigators
Scottsdale Police are still interested in hearing from anyone with information that could be relevant to the case. Tipsters can contact the department directly or use the online "Inform the Police" portal. Scottsdale Police says tips can help corroborate existing accounts as detectives continue their work.
