New Mexico: Chuck Franco ready for ‘First Dude’ role
I hope they ditch the “first dude” nickname and come up with something that doesn’t make me think “Palin”.LAS CRUCES - Dozens of Doña Ana Sheriff’s Office employees and their families gathered Thursday at the department to bid farewell to retiring undersheriff Chuck Franco, who will begin a new career as what some jokingly called “First Dude” in January, when his wife, 3rd Judicial District Attorney Susana Martinez, is sworn in as governor.
Franco spent nearly six years as undersheriff, in a law enforcement career that spanned 32 years at the sheriff’s office, the Las Cruces Police Department and the New Mexico State University Police Department.
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Franco was visibly emotional as he thanked the officers who trained him, those he had watched advance in the ranks, civilian staff and his family, including Martinez and his son Carlo, who were both in attendance.
“Our department’s come a long way with equipment, personnel, wages, and the battle to get our staff raises,” Franco said, adding that, once in Santa Fe, he wouldn’t forget the struggles to fund law enforcement. “We’re not giving up on that.”
Franco said he plans to devote his time in the capital to reaching out to the state’s at-risk children, with the Children, Youth and Families Department. A former game warden, he also wants to assist with issues at the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish - both unpaid, volunteer pursuits.
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Undersheriff Chuck Franco and Gov.-elect Susana Martinez listen Thursday to warm wishes of farewell from staff of the sheriff’s department. (Norm Dettlaff/Sun-News)