Warrants Issued for Man Found Guilty of Harassing Judge Ray Carroll

Arrest warrants have been issued for Michael Scaramella, a 67-year-old man from Green Valley, following his failure to appear in Pima County Consolidated Justice Court. Scaramella, previously convicted of harassing Justice of the Peace Ray Carroll, was to have his probation reinstated by Judge Pro Tem John Davis.

During the court proceedings, which lacked Scaramella’s presence, significant concerns were raised by various parties. Pima County probation officer Ricardo Chavez reported that two women near Scaramella’s home communicated his expressed intent for retribution against those he believes have wronged him. Chavez described Scaramella as appearing unstable and a potential danger to himself and others.

Attempts by Chavez to notify Scaramella about the court date were unsuccessful, as he visited the defendant’s residence twice without a response, and Scaramella did not answer phone calls. His attorney, Thomas Jacobs, disclosed that he had not communicated with Scaramella since December 2022, with no responses to emails or voicemails.

Prosecutor Vinny D’Arquea and Carroll’s attorney emphasized Scaramella’s history of missed court dates. During the hearing, a clerk attempted to contact Scaramella by phone, but he did not answer. Carroll expressed frustration, indicating that he and his wife remain fearful and are eager to resolve the long-running case.

Another victim, Peggy Miller, reminded the court of Scaramella’s prior conviction for harassing her, noting there is still an outstanding warrant for his arrest due to his absence at his sentencing. The case has taken a toll on her, forcing her to leave Green Valley for over a year.

Judge Davis issued the warrants and raised concerns regarding the safety of law enforcement involved in serving them, alluding to the murder of a constable in 2022. Carroll remarked on the deputies’ awareness of Scaramella’s case, emphasizing the need for caution in their operations.

Scaramella’s legal troubles began in February 2021 when he faced two counts of harassment related to a couple in Green Valley. The harassment stemmed from his objections to their friendship with his former girlfriend. He subsequently violated a protective order sought by Carroll, resulting in further charges in mid-2021.

By February 2022, Scaramella was found guilty on multiple counts. He received a sentence of three years of supervised probation and required to pay over $26,000 in restitution to Carroll. Following the verdict, Scaramella filed appeals challenging the trial court’s decisions, which have generally been dismissed by higher courts for procedural issues.

At the conclusion of Wednesday’s hearing, Judge Davis reiterated the restitution owed to Carroll must be paid, and he approved Jacobs’ motion to withdraw from representing Scaramella.