Ready to Serve on Day One
My name is John Rivero, and I am asking for your vote to be the next Sheriff of Columbia County
After 26 years in law enforcement, I am running for Columbia County Sheriff to bring real change through better training, police reform, public engagement, and professionalism.
Together, let's build a safer, stronger community!
I'm a lifelong resident of Columbia County, raised in Hollowville and a graduate of Taconic Hills High School. In 2003, I married my wife Debra, and we’ve made our home in Valatie, where we’re raising our two children along with our two dogs. Columbia County has always been my home — a place I care deeply about and am committed to keeping safe for all who live, work and visit Columbia County.
I have proudly served the Columbia County Sheriff's Office for 23 years, and have lived in our community since 1985. I have volunteered to coach many youth sports teams, and at my local church and at my children's schools.
After retiring from the Sheriff's Office in 2022, I returned to school to earn a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. This experience deepened my understanding of modern policing philosophies, including the latest approaches to restorative justice, diversion programs, and implicit bias. It also gave me the opportunity to engage with and learn from the next generation preparing to enter the criminal justice field.
