Joe Roybal
How does your experience make you qualified to represent the people?
As the duly elected Sheriff, I bring more than 30 years of law enforcement experience and have served in every rank within the Sheriff’s Office. As a native of this community, born and raised here, I have witnessed firsthand the tremendous growth in our region along with increases in crime and public safety challenges. Over decades of service, I have built lifelong relationships across many parts of our community, giving me a deep understanding of the people, needs, and concerns of our residents.
My career has focused on overseeing one of the greatest liabilities and responsibilities within public safety operations—the jail system. I have led teams responsible for dismantling illegal drug rings, combating human trafficking, and protecting vulnerable individuals within our community. I understand the Office of Sheriff carries a direct responsibility for the safety and well-being of every resident.
During my first term in office, I delivered on every promise I made to the public. My administration strengthened staffing levels, improved public safety services, expanded community engagement, and strengthened nationally recognized programs focused on mental health and inmate care.
What are your top policy priorities?
My top priorities focus on reducing crime, protecting victims, and holding criminals accountable. I remain committed to maintaining safety within our jail while ensuring incarcerated citizens receive appropriate care and services.
Building trust between law enforcement and the community continues to be a major focus of my administration. Transparency remains a priority regardless of how controversial or difficult a subject may be. I believe strong communication and accountability build confidence within our community.
I also developed policies and programs receiving national recognition for mental health services within the jail system. Under my leadership, the El Paso County Jail achieved a 99.9% accreditation rate while continuing to improve operational standards and professionalism.
Staffing remains one of the biggest challenges facing law enforcement nationwide. During my first term, I addressed staffing shortages by achieving an over-hire status of 24 deputy sheriff positions above staffing goals, helping ensure public safety services remain fully operational for our community.
Community engagement also remains essential to effective leadership. I strongly believe elected officials should remain visible and accessible to the public. Since taking office, I have engaged in hundreds of community events, nonprofit organizations, and public meetings throughout our region.
What is one issue being overlooked in this race, and how would you address it?
One major issue being overlooked involves advocacy for strong public safety policies. Across Colorado, irresponsible anti-law enforcement legislation and soft-on-crime policies continue creating serious challenges for public safety professionals and the communities we serve.
As Sheriff, I believe it is my responsibility to involve both my staff and members of our community in legislative discussions directly impacting public safety. Law enforcement professionals, victims, and citizens deserve a voice in policies influencing crime prevention, community safety, and accountability within our justice system. I will continue advocating for policies supporting law enforcement, protecting victims, and preserving safe communities for future generations.
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