Amadeo Ortiz responds to Sheriff Ralph Lopez's run

Amadeo Ortiz (photo)

Candidate for Sheriff, 2008

Press Release 5-10-07

For Immediate Release: Candidate’s reaction to announcement of Ralph Lopez running for Re-Election in Bexar County. SAN ANTONIO, TX – Bexar County Sheriff Ralph Lopez, who repeatedly made public statements that he would not run for Sheriff again after 4 terms in office announced today that he was running for re-election.

Amadeo Ortiz, current candidate for Sheriff and former Jail Administrator for Ralph Lopez said. "I am not surprised that Sheriff Lopez was persuaded to run for re-election, although he has stated numerous times that he was retiring. I remain committed to my bid for election to Bexar County Sheriff in 2008.

I know that I will bring a much needed change of focus to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office that can only come for a “fresh approach”. While I have the greatest respect for Sheriff Lopez, I believe that it is time for a new direction as we face the challenging times ahead. With ever increasing crime rates and the county jail population growing exponentially, we have to find new and innovative ways to protect the community we serve and serve them better.

A spirit of unification within the Sheriff’s Office is sorely needed. Strong and decisive leadership is necessary to achieve unity. A two tier system within the Sheriff’s Office was a well meaning effort, but it had unforeseen consequences, pitting officer against officer. This is unacceptable. We need one agency, one mission and ‘one uniform’ for everyone to recognize the oneness of the organization.

Law Enforcement officers and Detention Officers must all work together for a common goal and a common vision. There may be inherent differences in duty assignments, but one is not greater than the other. There must be a sense of PARTNERSHIP for both entities to feel valued for their contribution. The status quo of, business as usual, cannot continue as it is detrimental to the mission and mandate from the community.

New leadership is needed with the commitment and flexibility necessary to meet the complexities of tomorrow’s world, while honoring the past for its contribution. I look forward to debating the issues and vow to run a positive and upbeat campaign. As the saying goes; MAY THE BEST MAN WIN!

Amadeo Ortiz
Candidate for Sheriff 2008
Contact : Amadeo Ortiz
210-736-3312 office 210-669-6116 cell
Iwillhelp@Ortiz4Sheriff.info