May 19, 2023

Sandoval County Sheriff’s Office announced today that two of its deputy cadets earned top ranking in their class at the CNM Law Enforcement Academy (CNM LEA). Class 9 graduated May 18, 2023—Deputy cadets Kiara Portillo as Valedictorian and Amber McLean as Salutatorian. Their titles are now Certified Sheriff’s Deputies. Sixteen cadets went through the Class 9 Academy. In this Academy, the cadets complete more than 700 hours of classroom and practical training in several areas. The CNMLEA uses the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy Basic Police Officer Training (BPOT) curriculum.

In making the announcement, Sandoval County Sheriff Jesse James Casaus expressed his appreciation for their commitment and their achievement. “These two new Certified Sheriff’s Deputies exemplify what is needed in today’s law enforcement officer. Their education, on-the-job training, and how they conduct themselves in the field demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and dedication to protecting the public. We are proud to serve with these individuals.”

Gilbert Armendariz, Warden, Sandoval County Detention Center, also applauded the academic success and career advancement of Deputies Kiara Portillo and Amber McLean. “Both of these public safety officers began their careers at our Detention Center, and they were very successful here,” Warden Armendariz shared. “And so, when the opportunities at the Sheriff’s Office presented, they were encouraged to apply and make the move. Sandoval County is committed to career development within the County, and these two officers are proof of that.”

For more information on career opportunities in Public Safety and more at Sandoval County, visit https://www.sandovalcountynm.gov/departments/human-resources/.

Kiara Portillo, Valedictorian
Class 9, CNM Law Enforcement Academy (CNM LEA)
May 18, 2023

Deputy Portillo began her public safety career at Sandoval County as a Detention Officer (06/21) and then moved to the Sheriff’s Office (10/22) and immediately transitioned to a Deputy Cadet in preparation for the CNM LEA.

Amber McLean, Salutatorian
Class 9, CNM Law Enforcement Academy (CNM LEA)
May 18, 2023

Deputy McLean began her public safety career at Sandoval County Detention Center (10/19) and then moved to the Sheriff’s Office, Animal Control Department (01/21). In 2022, she transitioned to a Deputy Cadet in preparation for the CNM LEA.