Tomas Archuleta is a 32-year veteran of law enforcement, he entered into law enforcement in a time when the community was panicked, searching for a young boy who disappeared during a hunting trip. Wanting to help bring the young boy home, Archuleta joined in the search and rescue efforts as a reserve deputy. He was in the reserves for three years before finally applying and becoming a full-fledged deputy. He is looking to be sheriff because he sees an opportunity for more community policing and educational chances in the schools to keep children away from drugs.
Archuleta put a lot of hours into the search of Michael Henley, a young boy who disappeared on a hunting trip with his father in the Zuni Mountains in the late 80s. “I wanted to help the family, and help the community. I learned that I really liked interacting with the people. My promotional boards say that a vote for me is a vote for the people, because I am about the people. I’ve always wanted to help the people and I’m happiest when I’m helping the people.”
Archuleta started his career at CCSO, but he didn’t stay there, after six years he applied to Milan Police Department, a place he called home for 16 years, the last six of which were spent as a sergeant. He would aide the chief with administrative affairs, when necessary, because the department did not have an assistant chief, but he eventually transferred back to CCSO where he has stayed for 10-years.
“We need to continue being transparent with the people so we can keep their trust. If we continue this, we’ll be able to get more community involvement. I want to bring back some drug awareness to the schools and get back to community policing,” Archuleta said.
“I care about the people of this community; I grew up in this community, my mother lives here, a lot of my family and my grandchildren live here. I want this to be a good community for all of us to live together,” Archuleta said.