Former Mesa County Sheriff Matt Lewis has been hired as director of the Mesa County Criminal Justice Services Department.

In his new role, Lewis will work with the county commissioners, other county departments, public safety agencies and community partners to address public safety needs and services.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to return to public safety and serve the people of Mesa County,” Lewis said. “Mesa County has been an innovator in public safety, and its an honor to continue to working with them.”

Mesa County Commissioner Janet Rowland praised the hiring. “Mesa County is blessed to have Matt leading our Criminal Justice Services Department. Not only does he bring decades of experience in the criminal justice system, he has a long history of building teams and growing leaders and is a great collaborator.”

Lewis worked at the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office for 25 years in a series of roles before his election to two terms. He also served as director of safety and security at Community Hospital in Grand Junction.

 He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and is a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Policing and Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy.