ABQ Times

The Sheriff's Office Advisory and Review Board (SOARB) in Bernalillo County, New Mexico, has elected Matthew Ray as its new Chair. Ray, a veteran in law enforcement, will lead the board's efforts to promote transparency and accountability within the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).

Ray was chosen by fellow SOARB members to replace retired Judge Tommy Jewell, who served as chair for four years. With nearly 20 years of experience in law enforcement, including three years as a BCSO deputy, Ray is well-versed in investigations and public service. He holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of New Mexico.

"I am honored to have been elected as Chair of the SOARB," Ray stated. "One of our greatest strengths is the dedication of our members—community volunteers who bring diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to transparency, accountability, and meaningful engagement with BCSO."

The SOARB was established in 2020 to provide a platform for residents, criminal justice advocates, and law enforcement representatives to discuss ways to improve relationships between the community and BCSO. The board also conducts independent reviews of BCSO policies and procedures and offers recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners, the Sheriff’s Office, and the public.

Meetings are held bi-monthly and are open to the public. The next meeting is scheduled for Friday, April 11 at 1 p.m., which will be conducted both physically at Bernalillo County @ Alvarado Square in Albuquerque and virtually. More information can be found on their website at Bernco.gov/soarb.