There are seven constable offices in El Paso County, each representing a different precinct. The constables work in conjunction with the justices of the peace, serve warrants, make arrests and carry out evictions as ordered by the courts. The constables serve a four-year term and are paid $107,133 a year.
Who’s running for this seat?
Rito Rubio Jr., 42, a Democrat, is an El Paso County deputy constable.
Manny López, a Democratic candidate for Constable Precinct 5, did not respond to the questionnaire.
Candidate Questionnaires
Candidates were asked to limit their responses to 100 words. Responses have been lightly edited for grammar.
Rito Rubio Jr.: The questions relating to migrants are complex. We must keep in mind that many of these migrants are also victims of human smugglers who, historically, mistreat indigent migrants for their own profit. This new law provides the tools necessary to protect our community from human traffickers. I oppose any situation that would make people reluctant to reach out to law enforcement, should they be the victims of crime.
Manny López: No response.
Rito Rubio Jr.: For the past 20 years, community outreach has not been a priority. Too often, the seniors in our community fall victim to fraud and deception when our constables could be educating and warning them about these threats. Our schools need constables to assist with school zone traffic and safety. Also, our veterans are not provided with Constable support during events wherein they show the community the sacrifices they have made for our nation. The people in Precinct 5 deserve our help and respect.
Manny López: No response.
Rito Rubio Jr.: I will start by implementing policies that will establish trust and transparency with the community. This community needs a Constable who is accessible to all residents, and openly transparent about what programs the office of constable is providing. I do not believe that I alone have all the answers. My relationship with this community will have an open-door policy. Input from the community will be used to create future programs, making sure that I am truly meeting the needs of Precinct 5.
Manny López: No response.
Rito Rubio Jr.: This question has a simple answer: MORE. The “overall effort” to reduce violent and juvenile crimes belongs to all of us. I believe that we can stem the rising tide of juvenile crime by providing resources and education. Informing our community about drug treatment options, anger management, and resources for our homeless population can bring our citizens face-to-face with alternatives to crime. When crime happens, my first priority as Constable is ensuring the safety of the community.
Manny López: No response.
Rito Rubio Jr.: Because Precinct 5 deserves better. I ask anyone reading this to answer this question: What has the Precinct 5 Constable done for the community in the past 20 years? This Precinct has been lulled into complacency not knowing or caring what our Constable is doing. I’m the best candidate in this race because I will bring the Office of Constable to the people of this Precinct. My office will be open. I will actually be there.
Manny López: No response.
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The post Meet the candidates for Precinct 5 constable in Democratic Primary appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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