COSTILLA COUNTY — Carlos DeLeon announced his candidacy for the office of Costilla County Sheriff.

DeLeon is a lifelong community member and third generation descendent of the Joe and Emma Espinoza family. He is married with six children and nine grandchildren.

After graduation from Centennial High School in 1984, DeLeon served four years of active duty in the United States Marine Corps. While in boot camp, he started off as a squad leader and was meritoriously promoted to Private First Class. In garrison, he was platoon commander and subsequently meritoriously promoted to the rank of Corporal. Upon return to San Luis, he served four years of inactive reserves.

DeLeon assisted his grandparents in the operation of their business (El Patio Inn) for 10 years. During this time, he was employed at Battle Mountain Gold as a haul truck driver and heavy equipment operator. He was promoted to mine operations supervisor and held that position for four years, serving the remaining five years as mill operations supervisor. Upon closure of the mine, DeLeon commuted to Cripple Creek where he worked at the gold mine as a heavy equipment operator.

Following his career working in mines, DeLeon was employed at Culebra ranch (Taylor Ranch) now Cielo Vista Ranch. He worked as a ranch hand and was eventually promoted to ranch manager. After working on Cielo Vista Ranch for 13 years, he managed a ranch on La Veta Pass for five years. On January of this year, he returned to Cielo Vista Ranch as ranch manager.

“My supervisory experience encompasses many years,” DeLeon said. “The positive life influences I acquired have made me the person that I am today. My experience and people skills have enabled me to positively interact with the residents of Costilla County.”

Community and volunteer services include:

• Two terms school board member, serving as vice president at Centennial R-1;
• Costilla County Search and rescue coordinator for 13 years;
• President of the Costilla County Ambulance Board; and
• 2017 – 2018 Quartermaster for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6101

“Costilla County means the world to me,” he said. “I love living in Costilla County and my desire is to continue volunteering to make life better for the youth and for all members of Costilla County. I encourage care and respect for our elders who have contributed so much to our lives.

“I would be honored if elected as Sheriff of Costilla County. I will extend my abilities in the interest and concerns of our citizens, administering my duties to ensure the safety and protection with respect to justice and impartiality. There are many things that I plan on implementing to keep our schools and all residents of Costilla County safe. I will perform my official duties to the best of my ability.”