ABOUT LONNIE HEFFINGTON

Born and raised in Monterey County's Salinas Valley, Lonnie has served with the Monterey County Sheriff's Department for 31 years.

Lonnie's leadership qualities lead to his promotion to the rank of Lieutenant in 1979, and he has served as a manager, administrator, and executive for over 22 years. He is a proven leader with a positive outlook and a positive plan of service to the citizens of Monterey County.

LONNIE'S EDUCATION

• Salinas Valley Public Schools
• First ever graduate of Alisal High School
• Hartnell College - A.A. Degree
• San Jose State University - B.S. Degree in Social Sciences
• Cal Poly Pomona - Masters Degree in Management
• Graduate of FBI National Academy
• Graduate of California Command College

LONNIE'S PRIORITIES

Lonnie's background and experience give him a unique understanding of the development and operation of the entire Department. He understands the positive operations and programs that are in place, and he plans to build on them by:

Emergency Operations and Responses, being sure that the Department is prepared to respond, in cooperation with other public safety agencies, to every type of emergency.

Aggressive recruitment and retention policies, to keep the Department staffed with well qualified and well trained Deputies.

Community Outreach Programs, designed to listen to all groups and citizens of the County, to understand what the quality of life issues are.

Drug and Gang Diversion Programs, focused on mentoring and role modeling, to break the chain of drug, gang, and violent lifestyles.

Volunteer Organizations and Programs, maximizing the skills, energy, and dedication of citizens who offer tremendous resources and services to the County.

LONNIE'S ENDORSEMENTS

Lonnie is endorsed by current Sheriff Gordon Sonnè as "the most experienced and qualified candidate" for Sheriff of Monterey County. He is also endorsed by former three-term Sheriff Bud Cook.

Professional Boxer Jose Celaya and Olympic Gold Medal Champion Alvin Harrison endorse Lonnie, because of his commitment to Youth Programs.