Mateo Montoya-Collis
Democratic Party
How does your experience make you qualified to represent the people?
I believe the Sheriff’s job is to serve every resident of El Paso County with fairness, professionalism, and integrity. Public safety should never be partisan — it should be about protecting people, respecting the law, and earning the trust of the community every single day. My experience has prepared me to lead with a steady hand, listen to different perspectives, and focus on practical, common-sense solutions that keep neighborhoods safe while treating people with dignity and respect. In a county as large and diverse as El Paso County, the Sheriff must be committed to both strong law enforcement and strong community relationships. I will work to ensure the Sheriff’s Office is visible, responsive, and accountable; trust is built not just by what we say, but how we serve.
What are your top policy priorities?
Community education on Colorado state law — A positive outcome from residents that understand their rights, responsibilities, and the laws that affect public safety so the Sheriff’s Office can build trust through communication and education, not just enforcement. Safe communities in every part of the county making sure residents in urban, suburban, and rural areas all receive dependable public safety services.
Community trust and accountability — building confidence through transparency, professionalism, and respectful policing.
Support for deputies and staff — ensuring the people who serve this county have the training, resources, and leadership they need to do their jobs well.
Mental health and crisis response — improving how we respond to people in crisis so we can protect both public safety and human dignity.
Responsible jail operations — maintaining a detention system that is safe, well-run, and focused on helping the courts, probation and parole by reducing repeat problems where possible.
Increased support for our military population- I will stand with El Paso County’s military community — our service members, veterans, and families who have sacrificed so much for our country. That means strengthening partnerships, improving mental health and crisis response, and ensuring they know the Sheriff’s Office is a trusted resource before, during, and after military separation.
These priorities are entirely linked. The entire county becomes safer when citizens trust law enforcement, deputies feel supported, and our responses are strategic and effective.
What is one issue you think is being overlooked in this race, and how would you address it?
One issue I believe is sometimes overlooked is the importance of public trust as a public safety strategy. Safety is strongest when community members feel comfortable reporting crimes, cooperating with deputies, and engaging with the Sheriff’s Office as partners. Trust must be earned through consistency, professionalism, and open communication.
I would address this by focusing on transparency, regular engagement with residents, and clear standards for service and accountability. I want people across El Paso County — regardless of neighborhood, background, or political viewpoint — to know that the Sheriff’s Office is there to protect them, listen to them, and serve them fairly. That kind of trust does not weaken public safety; it strengthens it.
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