PHOENIX — There's a new sheriff in town, and he addressed the public for the first time on Tuesday.
Maricopa County Sheriff Russ Skinner was recently appointed to the position following Paul Penzone's resignation. He'll be serving for the remaining 10 months of Penzone's term before the next election.
During a press conference on Tuesday, Skinner said that he does plan to pursue reelection and intends to run as a Democrat.
VERSIÓN EN ESPAÑOL: Nuevo alguacil del Condado Maricopa impulsa reformas en el departamento, espera extender programas de educación
"This is not a political position in my eyes," he said. "I'm here to be a qualified law enforcement professional and hopefully drive this department forward."
A registered Republican for 36 years, he became a Democrat in October, one day after Paul Penzone announced he was leaving.
The board had to appoint a Democrat in Penzone’s place. Skinner said he registered as a Democrat because he wanted to serve as sheriff and ensure a seamless transition after Penzone left. He said he is by nature apolitical.
Skinner, the son of a Maricopa County Sheriff's Office employee, began his career as a deputy more than three decades ago. He rose through the ranks until he was sworn in as sheriff in early February.
Skinner was a sergeant and lieutenant during the controversial years of Joe Arpaio.
In the decade since Arpaio was found guilty of racial profiling and selective enforcement, the MCSO has been ordered to implement a range of reforms. While the office is still not in total compliance, Skinner says they're around 90% of the way through "phase two" of their plans to get up to compliance.
"I'm committed to making sure we continue to move the needle forward for the requirements of that court order," Skinner said, adding that he's committed to maintaining open communication with the court monitor and advisory board.
He stressed that he wants to expand existing healthcare and mental health response programs within the department, as well as push for more educational programs in schools.
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