VOTE411 Voter Guide

I bring a unique combination of law enforcement leadership, tactical command, and accountability that prepares me to serve as Lea County Sheriff. I have led as a CID Captain and SWAT Commander, directing complex investigations and making critical decisions in high-pressure situations. I also served as a Head of Security at a nuclear facility, where safety and compliance were non-negotiable. As a Lead Auditor and Quality Specialist III, I enforced strict standards, identified risk, and drove corrective action. I will lead with transparency, support our deputies, and strengthen public trust—because accountability is not just a principle I value, it is the standard that qualifies me to serve.

If elected, I will strengthen the Sheriff’s Office Administration by improving internal systems, clarifying expectations, and ensuring consistent leadership practices, with a focus on professionalism, culture, and accountability. I will modernize policies, enhance training, and implement mentorship so deputies clearly understand expectations and perform at a high standard. I will build a chain of command that builds trust and unity. I am committed to a culture rooted in respect—both in serving the public and within our ranks. I will implement fair performance standards, strengthen internal review processes, and ensure leadership accountability—setting clear expectations, measuring performance, and maintaining accountability at every level.

A key challenge for the Sheriff’s Office is the strain created by staffing gaps across the county, particularly in municipal police departments. While the office is typically fully staffed, deputies are often required to assist or cover areas outside their primary responsibility. While interagency support is important, doing so regularly increases workload, strains capacity, and can impact service. At the same time, our county’s large geographic area creates long response times and situations where deputies may operate without immediate backup. These challenges directly affect deputy safety, operational efficiency, and service across the county. Addressing this will take coordination, clear priorities, and effective use of resources.

Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated and practical approach. I will strengthen interagency coordination through well defined mutual aid agreements to ensure support is balanced and sustainable, while working with local leaders on retention efforts. I will improve response efficiency using data-driven and technological deployment, real-time mapping, and stronger communication to better allocate resources. I will evaluate patrol strategies to position deputies effectively and reduce response gaps. I will prioritize deputy safety by ensuring timely backup and operational support. These actions will strengthen coordination, improve response times, and ensure safer, more consistent service across the county.

Deputies should receive training that equips them to respond effectively to mental health situations. They must recognize early signs of crisis and respond before situations escalate. Training will emphasize clear policies, consistent procedures, and effective de-escalation techniques to reduce tension and stabilize encounters. Deputies will also be trained to work with mental health professionals and connect individuals to appropriate resources. Ongoing, scenario-based training will build confidence and decision-making skills. Equally important, deputy wellness will be prioritized so they can respond with professionalism and care. This approach improves outcomes, strengthens public trust, and supports both the community and our deputies.