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El Paso, Texas County Sheriff Choose 1

Voter Guide

Candidate picture

Minerva Torres Shelton (Rep)

Biographical Information

Campaign Phone 9154940305
Campaign Email minerva4sheriff@gmail.com
Education/Degrees Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice and Master's in International Relations
Professional Experience US Army, Military Intelligence Sgt. El Paso Police Department Patrol Officer. FBI Supervisory Special Agent
Community Involvement Board member of several nonprofit organizations. I currently serve on the Boys and Girl's Club.

Is the downtown jail usable or should it be retrofitted to standard?

The detention facilities must be updated, especially regarding modern technology and training. The Sheriff is responsible for ensuring the officers' and offenders' safety and well-being. As your next Sheriff, I will exercise due diligence to ensure that we are taking advantage of the available technology, training, and grants to reduce the burden on us, the taxpayers.

What sort of mental health triage is in the jail?

Due to the lack of transparency by the current administration, there is limited information regarding mental health triage. As your next Sheriff, I will review the current policies and procedures and implement best practices by other detention facilities that have reduced the number of suicides and violence among their population. Many grants and policies are available, and we must look at ways to improve the safety of offenders and officers and reduce the cost to taxpayers due to lawsuits.

Is the Sheriff's office cooperating with city police in training for mental health issues?

Yes, the Sheriff's office is cooperating with city police on mental health training initiatives. I plan to further enhance our partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies to provide the most comprehensive and up-to-date training for our department. Mental health is not just a priority for law enforcement in general but is especially critical for correctional facilities, where many inmates face mental health challenges. I will focus on ensuring our deputies are equipped to handle situations involving individuals in mental health crises safely and compassionately. Additionally, we will work closely with mental health professionals and community organizations to develop proactive solutions and treatment options that reduce recidivism and improve outcomes for those suffering from mental illness.

What should be the relationship between the Sheriff's office and the union?

The relationship between the Sheriff's office and the union is crucial for maintaining a healthy and effective law enforcement environment. Open communication and collaboration ensure that concerns are addressed, disputes are resolved, and both parties work toward common goals, ultimately benefiting both employees and the community. By working together, the Sheriff's office and the union can advocate for continuous professional development, ensuring that deputies have the necessary training and resources to perform their duties safely and effectively. This partnership also contributes to better working conditions, fair wages, morale, and benefits, which enhance employee well-being and retention.

Voter Guide

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Oscar Ugarte (Dem)

Biographical Information

Is the downtown jail usable or should it be retrofitted to standard?

Candidate has not yet responded.

What sort of mental health triage is in the jail?

Candidate has not yet responded.

Is the Sheriff's office cooperating with city police in training for mental health issues?

Candidate has not yet responded.

What should be the relationship between the Sheriff's office and the union?

Candidate has not yet responded.