I saw many decisions made by prisoners over the years to yield their hearts to the Lord Jesus Christ. Then they, because of their desire to serve God, were changed to become a better family member, a better servant to their own personal family and a citizen to support the community and the United States of America.

Duke’s jail has always been open for the benefit of rehabilitation of those incarcerated. I have served and observed Duke as he led through major fires, floods, mudslides and crime investigations with perseverance and hard, long hours. I served as a POST certified deputy sheriff for over 14 years as a reserve officer. I have always had Duke’s open-door policy to bring any problems or questions to him. I have seen his efforts to keep his officers employed. Both Duke and his officers are respected throughout the community.

Is Duke Schirard perfect? No, but he has served our county with integrity and hard work along with good decisions through the years that he has been our sheriff. He has allowed our residents (with proper papers) to carry concealed for protection of self, family and community. I have worked for his undersheriffs; I have worked on patrol; and I have worked in transportation, even going out of state to bring back prisoners from other states. It has been my privilege to have served with his officers and deputies these many years.

I encourage the residents of La Plata County to keep our Sheriff Duke Schirard in office. Our Sheriff’s Office isn’t broken! It doesn’t need fixing! Vote for Duke Schirard for the benefit of our county!

Sterling Schaaf

Hesperus