Restoring Trust & Integrity

Gage Montoya for Las Animas County Sheriff

It is with a profound sense of duty and commitment that I announce the launch of my campaign, "Montoya For Sheriff." I have made the decision to step up and run for the
position of Las Animas County Sheriff because I believe that our community deserves leadership that embodies trust, integrity, and transparency. These values are not just words; they are the cornerstone of effective law enforcement and the foundation upon which a safe and prosperous community is built.

Why I'm Running

Over the past years, I have observed a growing disconnection between the sheriff's office and the citizens it serves. Trust has eroded, and the sense of partnership between law enforcement and the community has weakened. This is not just a local issue; it is a challenge faced by many communities across our nation. However, I believe that Las Animas County can set an example of how to turn the tide and restore faith in our law enforcement institutions.

Restoring Trust
Trust is earned through accountability and consistent action. As your sheriff, I pledge to implement policies and practices that ensure transparency in all operations of the sheriff's office. This includes:

Regular community meetings to foster open dialogue and address concerns.
Establishing a transparent complaint and feedback system for citizens.
Ensuring that all deputies and staff undergo rigorous training focused community relations and ethical conduct.

Bringing Back Integrity
Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It is the commitment to uphold the law without bias and to serve every member of our community with fairness and respect. My plan to restore integrity includes:

Conducting thorough internal audits to identify and correct any shortcomings in current practices.
Implementing strict standards for accountability and disciplinary actions for misconduct.
Promoting a culture of excellence and ethical behavior within the sheriff's office.

A Vision for the Future

My vision for Las Animas County is one where every citizen feels safe, valued, and heard. Law enforcement should be a source of stability and support, not fear or division. A vision for progress is not merely a destination; it is a collective journey that requires the dedication and cooperation of all involved parties. This vision is achievable through collaborative efforts and a shared commitment to advancement, including the cultivation of a strong and constructive relationship with the Las Animas County Commissioners.

Community Engagement
Community engagement is vital to building trust and fostering cooperation. As sheriff, I will:

Develop programs that encourage youth and community participation in law enforcement initiatives.
Partner with local organizations and businesses to address and solve community issues collectively.
Increase visibility and accessibility of the sheriff's office to ensure that citizens can easily connect with law enforcement representatives.

Safety and Security

The primary role of the sheriff's office is to ensure the safety and security of all residents. To achieve this, I will:

Increase patrols in areas identified as high-risk to deter criminal activity.
Utilize advanced technology to enhance crime prevention and investigation efforts.
Expand resources and support for victims of crime and their families.

Support for Deputies
Supporting our deputies is crucial for maintaining morale and ensuring effective law enforcement. My approach includes:

Providing continuous professional development opportunities for all staff.
Ensuring competitive compensation and benefits to attract and retain top talent.
Creating a supportive work environment that values the well-being and growth of each deputy.

Experience

Colorado Department of Corrections
Las Animas County Sheriff's Office
- Search and Rescue
- Sheriff's Posse
Trained and Certified FBI Hostage Negotiator

A Call to Action

This campaign is more than just a bid for office; it is a call to action for every citizen of Las Animas County. Together, we can build a sheriff's office that reflects our values and serves our community with honor and dedication. YOU DESERVE IT.

Join me in this journey to restore trust and bring back integrity to the sheriff's office. Your support, your voice, and your vote are crucial to making this vision a reality.

Thank you for your confidence and your commitment to a better Las Animas County.

Sincerely,

Gage Montoya