David Lucero
Democratic Party
How does your experience make you qualified to represent the people?
I have spent the last 26 years serving the people of Pueblo County in law enforcement, working my way through nearly every major assignment within the Sheriff's Office, including Patrol Deputy, Detective, Captain, Bureau Chief, Warden, Undersheriff, and now Sheriff. I am a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the FBI Command College, and I hold a Master's Degree in Public Safety. Today, I lead an organization of more than 400 employees and manage a budget of nearly $50 million.
More importantly, I was born and raised in a working-class family that taught me the value of hard work, accountability, and keeping your word. My experience has given me the opportunity to serve this community at every level of public safety, and I believe effective leadership comes from preparation, experience, and a proven commitment to the people you serve.
What are your top policy priorities?
My priorities are focused on public safety, employee development, and addressing the underlying causes of crime.
First, I will continue reducing crime through proactive enforcement, strong investigations, and partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies. Second, I will continue investing in recruitment, retention, training, and employee development to ensure we attract and keep the best public safety professionals. Third, I will continue expanding mental health and substance-use partnerships, including our co-responder program and the development of a stabilization and diversion center, because many of the challenges entering the criminal justice system are better addressed through treatment and intervention than repeated incarceration.
What is one issue you think is being overlooked in this race, and how would you address it?
One issue that is often overlooked is the complexity of the Sheriff's Office itself. Many people view the Sheriff primarily as a law enforcement officer, but the Sheriff is also the chief executive officer of a major public safety organization. The office is responsible for patrol operations, criminal investigations, detention services, court security, emergency management, civil process, and numerous partnerships throughout the community. The Sheriff has broad authority, but not unlimited authority. Every decision must comply with state law, court orders, constitutional protections, and the realities of the county budget. Experience teaches you not only what can be done, but how to do it responsibly. I believe Pueblo County deserves steady leadership that understands those responsibilities and continues building on the progress we have made.
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