By Shannon Lukens.
Jackson County Sheriff Jarrod Poley submitted his resignation from his job as sheriff, effective today, June 20. The Jackson County Board of County Commissioners has appointed Dustin Weber to serve as the new sheriff for Jackson County.
Former Sheriff Poley was the subject of a Recall Election on Tuesday, June 17.
Recall Petition Information from the Jackson County Clerk and Recorder
The ballot (picture is below) had a Recall Petition Committee Statement that focused on “dereliction of duty and breach of public trust,” that had to do with “a pattern of disregard for North Park School District student and staff safety.”
It also mentioned “Credible allegations of threats of obstruction of justice from U.S. Forest Service personnel and Jackson County administration, employees, and volunteers further erode public confidence.”
The committee statement ended with, “Jackson County deserves a sheriff who prioritizes the safety and well-being of its citizens and demonstrates fiscal responsibility. Our citizens deserve better leadership.”
Also on the ballot was the Incumbent’s Statement, refuting the charges. The statement said the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office implemented an alarm system at the school, offered active shooter training and training for child abuse cases, but, “School administration declined.”
“JCSO investigated all Safe2Tell reports and child abuse/sex abuse cases. The school hindered the Sheriff’s Office in all investigations. Letter had to be sent to the school attorney.”
The statement also mentioned the “recent arrest of the school principal,” and that the “School has a pattern of failures to protect students’ safety and failure to report.”
It adds, “Investigation of former Forest Service and Jackson County Admin employees was directed by CBI and Undersheriff Weber.”
The statement ended with, “The school’s involvement with this petition appears retaliatory for the arrest of the school principal.”
A sign on the door at the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office says the office is closed for public business until June 26. “Thank you for your cooperation and understanding. If you have an emergency, we can still be reached.”
A post on June 18 on the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page says, “Please be Advised. As we complete the transition of the JCSO, we will be still answering calls and assisting in emergency situations. At this time, we will not be open for administrative walk ins. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the office 970-723-4242.”
We left a message with Jackson County Dispatch on Thursday and have not heard back.
A Public Information Statement (letter is below) was posted on the Jackson County Board of County Commissioners Facebook page. It said, “We recognize that this is a busy weekend for our community with rodeo events and increased activity. The Jackson County Sheriff’s office patrol deputies will maintain an active presence, and Colorado State Patrol will also provide support as needed throughout the weekend. Additional law enforcement resources from partner agencies are available, if required.”
The statement added, “The Board and the Sheriff’s office are committed to a smooth and lawful transition of leadership. Law enforcement coverage will continue without interruption, and public safety remains our top priority during this time.”
Jarrod Poley was also a former officer with the Moffat County Sheriff’s office.
The North Park Never Summer Rodeo is June 20-22, in Walden, which is in Jackson County. The parade is at 10 a.m. Sunday, June 22. The theme is Pioneering Women. This is the 83rd year for the North Park Never Summer Rodeo.
