In the race for sheriff, the most important things to consider are experience and trustworthiness. I have worked in law enforcement at the local and federal level for over 33 years. I personally know Deputy Sean Smith and Sheriff Duke Schirard.

Deputy Smith is a personable young man, but he has never even worked in the jail, let alone run it. Duke has! Sheriff Schirard even oversaw the construction of the new jail. Sean was not even in the state when that was being built. The largest part of any sheriff’s budget is for the running of the jail and taking care of the prisoners confined there.

How many budgets has Deputy Smith had to work with? Heck, he has only been back in Durango for a bit over two years. That is not the kind of experience we need. Why would you vote for Deputy Sean Smith, who, as of now, is unproven and untested?

Sheriff Schirard has done an excellent job for La Plata County. He will continue to do an excellent job for the people of this county. Sheriff Schirard is a man you can trust. I do.

Mark Hansen

Bayfield