BERNALILLO — Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office held what the sheriff said was its first-ever formal inspection Monday morning in front of the 13th Judicial District courthouse.
The sheriff’s office shares the building with the court.
Sheriff Jesse James Casaus said he was accustomed to such inspections when he worked for New Mexico State Police and had been wanting to institute the practice with his office. He and Undersheriff Joe Gonzales said inspections hold deputies accountable and make sure they all have their vehicles, equipment and dress uniforms in order, clean and properly maintained.
“I think it’s important that deputies represent the county and look sharp,” Casaus said.
Gonzales said the office has 44 deputies, 10 sergeants, four lieutenants and three members of command staff. All of them who weren’t out sick attended the inspection.
Lt. John Castañeda said Rio Rancho, Cuba and New Mexico State police handled the sheriff’s office calls from 9 a.m. to noon that day, while deputies were inspected, had photos taken and listened to an address from Casaus.
-
- Sandoval County Sheriff’s Sgt. Brandi Kie, left, waits while Lt. Jason Benally, right, documents inspection of Kie and her vehicle while Undersheriff Joe Gonzales walks past in the background. Argen Marie Duncan photo.
-
- Sandoval County Sheriff Jesse James Casaus, far right, stands at the front of a line of his staff members after inspections while photographers take photos. Argen Marie Duncan photo.
-
- Sandoval County Undersheriff Joe Gonzales, far left, stands at the front of a line of deputies after inspections while photographers take photos. Argen Marie Duncan photo.
-
- From left, Sandoval County Sheriff’s Deputy Brian Espinosa watches as Lt. John Castañeda signs off on his inspection, conducted by Sgt. Audeliz Nieves. Argen Marie Duncan photo.
-
- Lt. Bryan Peters, left, makes notes as Deputy Rudy Fields presents his unloaded patrol rifle for inspection. Argen Marie Duncan photo.
