Babeu encouraged by large vote for change

In Tuesday’s primary election I received 9,339 votes; Christopher Vasquez received 7,574 votes, and Jayme Valenzuela received 4,239 votes. Voters clearly said they want a new Sheriff by voting nearly 2-1 for a new leader. I am humbled by the strong show of support and wish to thank you for the trust you have placed in me. I will bring the needed change, proper training and current technology that is desperately needed by our deputies and detention staff.

I appreciate Jayme Valenzuela and his 4,239 supporters for addressing the need for new leadership and accountability. I thank them for their efforts to change and improve our Sheriff’s Office. I will work hard to earn their confidence and support to move PCSO forward. Just last week, three thousand US Border Patrol Agents joined with 8,500 Arizona Police Officers and fire fighters to endorse our campaign for Sheriff.

As your Sheriff, I will improve emergency response times, enforce the law evenly and professionally, investigate all reports of crimes and have the best-trained deputies. Our deputies do not receive the training to meet the current threats and emergencies facing our families. I will start with First Aid and CPR certification, currently not provided. This is unacceptable in a rural county, where the first response is often a single deputy.

When a deputy arrives, it should be a professional experience where a fair and thorough investigation is provided. Tougher enforcement, resulting in arrests and charges will go far in ending the revolving door that currently exists. More pro-active policing is needed to show a stronger and more visible patrol presence in neighborhoods, where citizens often complain, “I have never seen a deputy drive down my street.”

The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) needs simple advances in technology, which will shorten emergency response times and allow for higher visibility in neighborhoods. PCSO needs to be brought into the 21st century when it comes to simple technology of police computers in every patrol vehicle. Computers allow deputies to view maps to arrive at emergencies faster and write reports in neighborhoods or other “high profile” areas instead of always having to return to the sub-station.

I shall externally hire and internally promote the very best qualified candidates to replace the outgoing administration by ending the good old boy system that has existed in Pinal County and where our sworn profession’s integrity has been compromised. I have not made promises or offers of positions to anyone, period. Fairness in promotions, training for all staff and an even hand in discipline will be implemented. Imagine an atmosphere where all employees are respected and treated with fairness. Imagine the improved moral and enhanced work performance that will follow.

All of these actions will result in much needed improvement in law enforcement. I will bring a focus on discipline, results oriented leadership and accountability to our Sheriff’s Office. I ask for your help, support and vote in this historic election.

Paul Babeu lives in Queen Creek and is a Chandler Police Officer, Army Major and the Republican candidate for Pinal County Sheriff.

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