Hello, I am Sheriff Dennis Spruell and I would like to welcome you to the Montezuma County Sheriff's Office website.  The article below emulates what I believe the people of Montezuma County should expect from their elected Sheriff.

Message from the Sheriff

I love Montezuma County! I was born and raised here. I married here, have raised my kids here and have worked for the citizens of Montezuma County for over 33 years.  I grew up with the Cortez Police Department where I had a wonderful career.  Working on the street as a law enforcement officer is a young man sport, but I was not ready to give it up.  After 31 years as a Patrolman, K-9 Handler, Corporal, Sergeant and Drug Task Force Director I felt it was time to move on.  So I followed my dream and ran for Sheriff of Montezuma County.  I was elected as Sheriff and began serving in January of 2011.

The Office of Sheriff is a constitutional office for the State of Colorado and is the only elected law enforcement position in the state or in the country for that matter. It has been important over the years that the "Sheriff" is elected and thus accountable directly to the people. The "Sheriff" answers only to the people and is not directed by any other body, elected or appointed person. Being answerable only to the voters provides for integrity in enforcing the law by not having a "boss" that might dictate otherwise. 

I do not believe there is, or has ever been, a better trained, more dedicated, hard-working group of individuals than the current employees of the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office. They approach each call for service with the same commitment and effort. Their work ethic is apparent and their service to the community is exemplary.

While it’s true that there are a great many challenges to the Sheriff’s Office, not the least of which is the encroachment of the Federal Government, it is the honor and pride which every employee brings to the table that makes this such a wonderful team. Time after time, these public servants show their care and compassion for the community through the way that they handle everything from folks who come in to the front counter with routine questions or requests for assistance, to the most dangerous of situations where lives literally hang in the balance.

As proud as I am of the employees here, I also love the people we serve. For the number of crimes and problems that we encounter, there are many times that number of citizens who go about their lives and business in a quiet, secure manner that is respectful of their fellow citizens and neighbors.

Please enjoy this beautiful place. Take part in the wonderful things that it offers. And should unfortunate circumstances befall you, please know that the dedicated men and women of the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office are here to help you.

Sheriff Dennis Spruell