Note: Candidates for sheriff were asked the same three questions and were allowed a total of 750 words to respond to the three questions.

YOVAN G. CARDENAS

Question

Crawford County has a diverse population. Tell the readers how you, as sheriff, will direct your department to gain or maintain the respect of all people, regardless of race and ethnicity?

Answer

As sheriff of Crawford County, I am committed to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity within our department and throughout the community. Our diverse population is a source of strength, and it is imperative that every individual feels valued and respected, regardless of race or ethnicity.

To achieve this, I will ensure that my department prioritizes fair and equal treatment for all citizens. We will actively engage with communities of diverse backgrounds through outreach programs, cultural events, and ongoing dialogue. By building strong relationships with every segment of our population, we can better understand their needs and concerns, and work together to address them effectively.

Furthermore, as a member of the diverse population myself and fluent in Spanish, I bring a unique perspective and ability to connect with individuals from different backgrounds. My personal experiences have taught me the importance of empathy, cultural sensitivity, and communication in law enforcement. I will lead by example, demonstrating through my actions and words that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

Question

What will be your priorities as sheriff during the next four years?

Answer

Crime Prevention and Reduction: My top priority will be implementing effective strategies to prevent and reduce crime in Crawford County. This will involve collaborating with community members, businesses, and other stakeholders to identify and address root causes of crime, as well as employing innovative approaches such as predictive policing and targeted enforcement efforts.

Enhancing Community Relations: Building trust and fostering positive relationships with all members of the community is essential for effective law enforcement. I will prioritize initiatives aimed at improving communication, increasing transparency, and engaging with diverse populations to ensure that everyone feels heard, respected, and supported by the sheriff's office.

Ensuring Public Safety: The safety and well-being of Crawford County residents will always be at the forefront of my agenda. I will focus on equipping deputies with the training, resources, and technology needed to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, as well as proactively addressing emerging threats to public safety.

Promoting Accountability and Professionalism: Upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity within the sheriff's office is non-negotiable. I will prioritize accountability measures, including regular reviews of departmental policies and procedures, as well as implementing ongoing training and development opportunities to ensure that deputies remain at the top of their game.

Addressing Mental Health and Addiction Issues: I will work to expand partnerships with mental health providers, addiction treatment centers, and social service agencies to provide support and resources to individuals in crisis, while also advocating for proactive interventions and diversion programs to prevent further harm.

Question

Tell why you should be the voters’ choice.

Answer

As your next Crawford County sheriff, I am committed to bringing a no-nonsense, results-driven approach to law enforcement. With a background in both law enforcement and the military, coupled with my education from Iowa State University, I am uniquely prepared to lead with a focus on action and accountability. Throughout my career, I have honed my skills in strategic planning, crisis management, and team leadership, equipping me with the tools necessary to navigate complex challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of our community.

Under my leadership the vision will be to staff a highly trained, well-equipped, professional team that will provide the highest level of service with urgency.  While providing comprehensive services, we will be transparent in our actions.  Utilizing any resource available, we will proactively reduce crime and enhance the quality of life to ensure Crawford County is a safe and attractive place for families to live, work, and visit.

Together, let's build a safer, stronger community where everyone feels valued and protected. With your support, I will lead with integrity, transparency, and a relentless dedication to serving the needs of Crawford County residents. Thank you for entrusting me with this important responsibility. I ask you to cast your vote for Yovan Cardenas on June 4th to be your Crawford County Sheriff.

ROGER E. RASMUSSEN

Question

Crawford County has a diverse population. Tell the readers how you, as sheriff, will direct your department to gain or maintain the respect of all people, regardless of race and ethnicity? 

Answer

We are fortunate to have such a diverse population in the county. The sheriff's office has the opportunity to learn from the diverse cultures we serve. To better serve our diverse population, we first need to better understand the different cultures within our communities, Currently, all sheriff’s office employees are required to have implicit bias training. This helps the employees understand how personal biases can influence their own behaviors. While this is extremely important, we are missing an important piece of learning about the different cultures. As sheriff I will ensure cultural competence and awareness training for all sheriff’s office employees. This will lead to a better understanding of the different cultures we serve. 

Second, we will be active within the communities to build relationships and trust. Law enforcement should be present and engaged with the public. There are multiple opportunities for law enforcement to host and/or attend events throughout the county. 

Third, we will be proactive in the communities to ensure the relationships stay strong with the diverse population. 

Question

What will be your priorities as sheriff during the next four years? 

Answer

The priorities are my platform for running for sheriff.

Transparency: My office will be transparent with the public. Transparency is one component of building and strengthening the trust between the sheriff’s office and the public. 

Community Relations: More interaction between the sheriff’s office and the communities we serve. I would like to see the sheriff’s office hosting events throughout the year to promote community involvement. (i.e. Shop with a Cop, Easter egg hunts, summer activities, etc.)

School Resource Officer Program: l want to create a partnership with all school districts within Crawford County to ensure the safety of all students

Drug Enforcement: Drug enforcement will be strengthened with additional training for all deputies.

Education and Training: There will be increased opportunities for deputies to attend educational and/or training courses. (i.e. cultural competence, interviews and interrogations, sexual assault/abuse, human trafficking, drug recognition expert (DRE), and other specialty courses.) 

Agency Collaboration: It is crucial that the sheriff’s office continue and strengthen relationships with agencies and departments. (i.e. law, fire, EMS, roads department, etc.)

Mental Health: Mental health is an issue across Crawford County. We will work hand in hand with mental health professionals and hospitals to help anyone get the resources needed. The addition of School Resource Officers will help with the mental health issues taking place in schools today.

Budget: The sheriff's office will pursue grants that are available to help offset the cost of training, equipment, etc., while ensuring the sheriff's office stays fiscally responsible.

Question

Tell why you should be the voters' choice.

Answer

Experience matters, I have 29 years of law enforcement experience with 20 of those years in Crawford County. For the last six years I have served as chief deputy. I was born and raised in Crawford County. I hold a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Bellevue University. My goal throughout my career has always been to be sheriff of Crawford County. I care about the communities within Crawford County. My entire law enforcement career has been committed to public service. I want to build relationships and work together with community members to promote safer communities. My platform is what our communities can expect. I will be a sheriff for the people. I have the knowledge and skill to lead the Crawford County Sheriff's Office into the future. It would be my honor to serve as the next Crawford County Sheriff.

Follow us on Facebook for the latest news and updates