SAN LUIS — Costilla County Undersheriff Ricky Rodriguez is running for Costilla County sheriff and bringing with him nine years of law enforcement experience, along with current Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) certification.

Rodriguez said his certification would alleviate any financial burden on Costilla County residents of training an uncertified candidate.

He has nine years of law enforcement experience including work as a patrol officer in Center for three years before moving to the Costilla County Sheriff’s Office, where he was a patrol deputy for one year before being promoted to sergeant until January 2017 when he was promoted to undersheriff.

Rodriguez said working in the positions of sergeant and undersheriff have given him the opportunity to work with surrounding agencies, gain much needed leadership skills along with experience in administration. “Working with a limited budget has allowed me to be successful in obtaining grants and training opportunities for deputies that didn’t affect the annual budget,” he said.

“During my time in law enforcement, I have specialized in major crime investigations, supervision of patrol and detention staff, overseeing and preparing the sheriff’s annual budget,” He said he has conducted numerous search and rescue operations within Costilla County. 

“Having numerous qualifications and training, I feel that I could provide the Costilla County residents with the utmost respected, fair and trustworthy sheriff’s office,” he continued. 

“I believe that there must be trust between the community and the sheriff’s office and, if elected, I will strive to obtain and maintain this trust.”

“With our community facing the growing threat of drugs and other major crimes, I feel we can work together with community support and reduce this epidemic.  I also believe that a great sheriff’s office begins with dedicated staff who are held accountable, given required training and are allowed to seek training that would be beneficial to the sheriff’s office and community,” Rodriguez added.

“As I always say, law enforcement needs the community it serves just as much as the community needs its law enforcement. 

Contact him at [email protected].