Gilbert Atencio Announces Candidacy for Rio Grande County Sheriff

Gilbert Atencio, a seasoned law enforcement professional, has declared his intention to run for Rio Grande County Sheriff in the upcoming election.

 

Originally hailing from Monte Vista, Atencio retired from the Taos County Sheriff's Office in 2024 and returned to the San Luis Valley.

 

Upon his return, he observed a surge in property crimes and drug-related issues, stating, "It was readily apparent, the problems that are plaguing our communities in Rio Grande County. Property crimes and drugs have taken over our sense of feeling safe in our own homes."

 

Atencio will participate in the Democratic primary scheduled for June 30, with the general election set for November 3.

 

The current sheriff, Anne Robinson, is seeking re-election for a second term.

 

Atencio's law enforcement career began in 1999 in Wray, Colorado.

 

He later joined the Taos County Sheriff's Office, where he served in various capacities, including dispatcher, detention officer, instructor, accident reconstructionist, commander of the motorcycle team, patrol sergeant, and undersheriff.

 

He believes that proactive community engagement and improved response times are essential to tackling the county's pressing issues.

 

"I believe there is a way to address these issues by being proactive in our communities and increasing our response times to calls. Property crimes and response times are the people’s most concerning issues in this county," Atencio remarked.

 

He added, "I firmly believe that my unique blend of experience and knowledge positions me ideally to drive positive change for the citizens of Rio Grande."

 

Recent data indicates that in 2024, Rio Grande County had 13 law enforcement officers, equating to a rate of 2.5 officers per 1,000 residents, a 7% decrease from the previous year.

 

Additionally, between 2019 and 2024, the county recorded 675 violent crimes and 1,156 property crimes, with an average violent crime rate of 226.1 per 100,000 residents, significantly above the national average.

 

As the election approaches, residents are keenly observing how candidates plan to address these challenges and enhance community safety.

 

Atencio's extensive background and commitment to proactive policing have already sparked discussions among community members about the future direction of law enforcement in Rio Grande County.