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Gillespie County Sheriff

A county sheriff in the state of Texas is elected for a term of four years.Duties: serves as a licensed peace officer who is responsible for enforcing the criminal laws of the State of Texas; manages and operates the county jail; supervises prisoners in the county jail; provides security for the county and district courts; serves writs and processes of the courts; seizes property after judgment; and enforces traffic laws on county roads.

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  • Candidate picture

    Chris Ayala
    (Rep)

  • Candidate picture

    Buddy Mills
    (Rep)

Biographical Information

What in your background qualifies you to serve as the Gillespie County Sheriff?

What are the most pressing issues facing the Gillespie County Sheriff?

What are the citizens of Gillespie County telling you about law enforcement problems?

Campaign Phone 210-563-6474
I am blessed to have over 30 years of law enforcement experience with 24 of those years right here in Gillespie County. I have served as a patrol officer, SRO-School Resource Officer and Active Shooter instructor with the Fredericksburg Police Department for 24 years. I hold a Masters Peace Officers License with TCOLE-Texas Commission of Law Enforcement. I have a passion for our community and, I was awarded Public Servant of the Year in 2020 by the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce based on my community involvement. I have a servant’s heart and wished to serve the people of Gillespie County.
I believe two of the biggest issues we face are illegal narcotics and mental health. We need to have a clear direction on how to work with the community to deter illegal drug use. We need to work and collaborate with all agencies possible within the county and surrounding counties to assist people who struggle with addiction and mental health.
The main concern was many citizens stated there is a disconnect with the current Sheriff’s office. Many citizens stated they have not had positive interactions. They are concerned whether deputies are getting the training needed to handle all aspects of law enforcement in our county. There were many concerns by our citizens and this is just a few stated.
My law enforcement career began 9/1/1980 as a State Game Warden. I transferred to Gillespie County in 1992 and continued serving until I retired in 2007. I was elected Sheriff on 1/1/2009. The extensive and advanced law enforcement training and public interaction during my state career, along with 15 years as Sheriff has provided valuable qualifications. I have addressed the outdated jail facility. Through public awareness and support we now have a 96-bed facility. I have increased the number of staff, launched two K9 units, advanced technology, training, and equipment while always seeking the best value for the taxpayer.
The rapid growth of businesses and tourism, traffic, open borders, drugs and human smuggling, increase in calls for service, employee pay, and retention are the most pressing issues I am continually facing. I was able to launch a competitive pay package for the employees due in part to my active involvement in the 87th legislative session, which should help with retention. I am always looking at the future needs of the county, and actively create plans for the Sheriff’s Office to meet those needs of the citizens.
Open borders, the influx of illegal immigrants, and drugs (fentanyl) are the biggest concerns I am hearing from the citizens in the county. The citizens are very satisfied with our pro-active enforcement actions and community involvement. By engaging and informing the citizens about what we are doing in the news, on the radio, and on social media greatly adds to the realization that this is a safe and secure county to work, raise a family, and live in.