Nanos and Lappin Clash in Fiery Pima County Sheriff Debate

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos and his Republican challenger, Lt. Heather Lappin, engaged in a spirited online debate Tuesday, moderated by Tucson Sentinel reporter Jim Nintzel. This marked their first public confrontation ahead of the upcoming election.

While the candidates aligned on several key issues, they traded barbs regarding each other’s qualifications and departmental history. Incumbent sheriff Nanos, appointed in 2015, is vying for a second full term, having secured just over 60 percent of the primary vote against Sandy Rosenthal. He lost the 2016 election but reclaimed his position in 2020.

Lappin, who has served as an officer for 19 years within the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, clinched the Republican primary in July with nearly 45 percent of the vote. Currently, she is the East Section commander at the Pima County Jail, reporting directly to Nanos.

Both contenders highlighted their professional experiences as qualifications for the role. Nanos boasted of his extensive law enforcement background, claiming that Lappin lacks adequate field experience. “I’ve been in law enforcement for over 40-plus years…most importantly, the last 15 years have been in executive leadership roles,” Nanos asserted.

On the other hand, Lappin countered that her master’s degree in organizational leadership focused on criminal justice sets her apart. “I am huge on education because I know I am a different, more compassionate person with my education,” she stated, emphasizing her understanding of social issues.

If elected, Lappin would be Arizona’s first female sheriff. “I think that’s a big deal to be on that side of history,” she remarked, citing her background overcoming adversity as a unique asset that informs her leadership style.

The debate also delved into community policing strategies. Both candidates expressed the significance of building trust within the communities they serve. Lappin emphasized the need for more patrol units to facilitate proactive engagement, pointing to existing staffing shortages that hinder relationship-building efforts with residents.

Nanos acknowledged the challenges, noting he returned to office amid a 25 percent staffing reduction but has since made strides in hiring and retaining deputies. “I reduced the attrition rate at the jail by 57 percent, and in the field by 55 percent,” he reported.

Discussions of criminal justice reform highlighted differing philosophies. Nanos pointed to improved staff development and increased budget allocations as a pathway to transformation within the department. In contrast, Lappin advocated for integrating social services into law enforcement, particularly during complex domestic situations.

Contentious claims surfaced as Nanos accused Lappin of falsifying training documents, which resulted in disciplinary action against her. Lappin, in return, raised concerns over how the sheriff handled a sexual assault case involving a former deputy, asserting that Nanos promoted the accused shortly after allegations emerged.

Both candidates distanced themselves from Arizona Prop. 314, which seeks to criminalize illegal border crossing. Nanos stressed that border issues are a federal responsibility, while Lappin highlighted the need for the sheriff’s department to address human trafficking and drug smuggling.

The ongoing fentanyl crisis was another significant topic. Nanos advocated for addressing drug trafficking at ports of entry, while Lappin emphasized community engagement and education. “The opioid crisis…requires attention from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department,” she stated, drawing on personal experiences to highlight the urgency of the issue.

Constitutional sheriff movements were also discussed. Nanos denounced the notion, labeling it as a club for extremists, while Lappin admitted to engaging with groups aligned with that ideology, underscoring the complexity of the issue.

Finally, both candidates presented their views on the need for a new jail facility. Nanos advocated for construction options to replace the aging structure, while Lappin suggested a thorough assessment of costs and designs before proceeding with any plans.

As the debate concluded, both candidates sought to establish their credibility. Nanos reinforced the importance of public safety, while Lappin touted her endorsements and emphasized the deputies’ preference in her quest for the sheriff’s post.