Ruben Montano new PCSO Jail Commander

On Monday Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu appointed Ruben Montano as at-will PCSO Jail Commander.

Montano will be an integral part of the sheriff’s office team, assuming the duties of developing policies and procedures in accordance with the National Detention Standards. This will prepare the Adult Detention Center for American Correctional Association accreditation.

Chief James Kimble commented, “The interview and selection process for this position was difficult as there were several outstanding candidates. I applaud the selection of Commander Montano, as his professional experience and formal education will greatly benefit the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office Adult Detention Center.”

“I’m honored to be selected by Sheriff Babeu. I intend to help implement his many reforms within our sheriff’s office with special interest focused on the Adult Detention Center,” Montano said.

Having worked in the fields of detention and corrections for nearly 23 years, Montano started his career with the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office in the 1980s, working in the Adult Detention Center; later he obtained his peace officer certification working in the Community Service Division. Following his employment with the sheriff’s office, Montano spent 20 years working for the Arizona Department of Corrections, retiring in 2004 as a deputy warden.

He also served the Florence community as a member and later president of the Florence Unified School District Governing Board. Following his retirement, Montano obtained his teaching credentials and was an educator in the Florence district from 2004 until June when he returned to his passion for corrections/detention by re-joining the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office as a detention officer.

Montano holds a Bachelor of Arts degree, a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Management and a Master of Education/Administration degree. He and his family reside in the Florence area.

Sheriff Paul Babeu stated, “As evidenced by his broad range of experience and knowledge in the field of detention/corrections, Commander Montano will play a vital role in the renewed professionalism and forward progression of the Sheriff’s Office Detention Center. Montano is a well-respected leader in the community, and his experience and skills will assist us in providing the best possible services to our community.”

Submitted photo