How can we stop the revolving door of the criminal justice system? The million-dollar question

I’ve spent my career addressing this issue in the community I love, working to improve the system from the inside out.

Keeping San Juan County safe takes more than making arrests. It takes effective public safety policies, real accountability, and programs that actually work.

Unfortunately, legislation coming out of Santa Fe has made the system more complicated.

I’m not okay with that. And I know you’re not, either.

As sheriff, I’ll be a strong voice in Santa Fe — standing up against dangerous proposals that put our community at risk and fighting for laws that prioritize safety over politics.

But it’s not just about pushing back. We have to go deeper and implement better solutions, because most people in our jail aren’t going to prison.

They’re coming right back to our neighborhoods.

And we want them to come back with the tools to rebuild, not repeat the same mistakes.

That’s why, as detention administrator, I’ve supported innovative programs like the RISE behavioral health program and the RSS initiative, both designed to help individuals successfully reenter the community and avoid reoffending.

I’ve also consistently advocated for strong, community-based mental health and support services throughout my public safety career.

These are resources that help people get back on their feet and stay on a better path.

Resources like addiction recovery, job readiness, and counseling make a real difference to people who are working to overcome serious challenges and may not have the same support systems that you and I might take for granted.

Public safety isn’t just about making arrests. It’s about preventing the next crime through smart legislation and resources that give people a real chance to succeed.

That’s the kind of leadership I’ll bring as your sheriff.