Currently Shayne Heap is Elbert County Undersheriff and Chief of Operations, responsible for the daily functions of detentions, patrol, traffic, investigations, records, administration, victims’ advocates, budgeting and training. He interacts regularly with community leaders, elected officials, and other law enforcement agencies, building relationships and expanding Elbert County’s law enforcement presence. He has worked in or managed every division of the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office, and in the past eight years he has instituted many improvements and cost saving programs within the jail, training and patrol divisions, and departmental administration (see Service). This year Shayne applied for and received almost $850,000 in grants for training and equipment. Undersheriff Heap has been awarded the Medal of Merit, Life Saving Medal and the Medal of Valor. He has also received letters of commendation from both local and federal agencies for his work in local law enforcement.
Undersheriff Heap began his public service career as a volunteer with the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and a cadet with the Grand Junction Fire Department while attending Mesa State College in Grand Junction. In 2002 he joined the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office as a Detentions Deputy. He quickly rose through the ranks to Supervisor in the Detentions Division, and was then transferred to the Patrol Division where he initially served as a Patrol Deputy, then Patrol Sergeant, and was then promoted to Patrol Commander. In 2007, Heap was appointed Undersheriff and Chief of Operations.
Highlights of his experience and qualifications include:
- Current Elbert County Undersheriff and Chief of Operations
- State of Colorado - Post Certified Level 1 Peace Officer
- Member Colorado Law Enforcement Officers’ Association
- Member United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association
- Graduate SWAT Operators Immersion Course (SOIC) – Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO
- Certified Clandestine Lab Safety, HIDTA
- Certified Instructor: Taser, Intoxilyzer, OC Aerosol, Arrest Control, Distraction Devices, Chemical Munitions, 12gauge less lethal, 37mm & 40mm launching platforms and ordinance
Awards and Recognitions:
- Awarded - Medal of Valor
- Awarded - Medal of Merit
- Awarded - Life Saving Medal
- Recognized by the EPA for dedicated professionalism during a joint operation
- Recognized by Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for negotiation with a barricaded gunman during a joint operation
- Recognized by the Elizabeth C-1 School district for contributions and assistance to the community
- Member Elizabeth C-1 School Safety Board
