Guest Commentary » Montezuma County Democrats

Hi:
My name is Dennis Spruell and I am a candidate for Sheriff of Montezuma County. I have lived in Cortez all my life and have served you as a Law Enforcement Officer for the past 29 years. My wife and I own Cortez Animal Bed & Breakfast. I was hired by the City of Cortez as a Patrol Officer and worked as a Corporal, Sergeant and Project Director of the 22nd Judicial Drug Task Force. I have been serving as a supervisor for more than 22 years. I have listed some of my qualifications and positions on the issues:

• Law Enforcement 29 years
• Certified K-9 Trainer and Handler
• Law Enforcement Bike Patrol Certified
• Certified Hostage Negotiator
• Swat Training
• 22 years as Supervisor with Certification from Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police
• 96 Hour College for First Line Supervisors in Law Enforcement
• Clandestine Laboratory Technician
• Clan Lab Site Safety Officer
• Project Director for Multijurisdictional Drug Task Force
• Training in Community Policing
• Critical Incident Command Training
• DUI Training and Certification
• Police Officer Training in Domestic Violence
• Certificate of Training for Practical Interrogation
• Constitutional Law Training
• Training in Advanced Highway Drug Interdiction
• Training in Anti-Bias Profiling for Police
• Taser Certified
• Training in Criminal Jurisdiction in Indian Country
• Owner of Successful Small Business
• Educated more than 1000 students on the effects of Methamphetamine
• Educated business owners, citizens of our community, and organizations throughout the Four Corners Area on the effects of Methamphetamine
• Applied for and obtained Grants for Law Enforcement projects

Dennis Spruell on the Issues
Drugs
I fully support the war on drugs. Although we may never win the fight we must stay in the battle. Drug addiction is a clear path to criminal activity and, while prevention and treatment are essential to combating substance abuse, we must also have strong, coordinated law enforcement efforts to stop the flow of drugs into our schools and neighborhoods. I have seen firsthand the damage that drugs do to young people and I am committed to fighting this problem.

Concealed Carry
I fully support the Second Amendment. When it is applied to Conceal Carry (CCW) permits, the courts have given local sheriffs wide latitude in determining who should and should not receive a CCW permit. As Sheriff, I will enact policies which put law abiding citizens first, rather than allowing criminals to have an advantage.

Budget and Taxes
With our current budget difficulties, maintaining a strong focus on public safety is vital. It is the first duty of government to protect the citizens they serve. Reductions in spending by any law enforcement agency must be targeted to maintain core services such as patrol, investigation and incarceration. As Sheriff, I will work to eliminate waste and balance the budget. Our government agencies must learn to live within their means and find the political will to cut non-essential programs during these challenging economic times.

Government Efficiency and Cooperation
Too often government officials become territorial and refuse to integrate resources for the betterment of taxpayers. I believe all levels of government owe it to the taxpayers to work together to create the most efficient working relationships possible. There can be no territorial fights when public safety and taxpayer dollars are at risk. As Sheriff, I will work to foster cooperation and ensure our operations interface seamlessly with other agencies for maximum efficiency and effectiveness.

Good Law Enforcement Supports a Strong Economy
Good policing can help grow a good economy. We all have a stake in safe neighborhoods, clean streets and low crime rates. These things contribute to a healthy community and vibrant economy which then draws more and better businesses. Policing impacts the community by working with business owners to ensure they have use permits and other support. This allows them maximum opportunity to run a healthy and profitable business. I believe law enforcement should work hand-in-hand with businesses in the community to help facilitate their needs and solve problems without being an impediment to good solutions.

I could go on about my Supervisor qualifications, my grant writing skills, management experience etc. but if you really want to know who will be the best Sheriff for Montezuma County, ask the opinion of people who work in the Law Enforcement Community.

Please visit my web site for more information on Dennis Spruell for Sheriff

Thank you and I look forward to working for you as your Sheriff.