Goodrich making a run at history
Republican would be county's first female sheriff

By Leslie Wood
Staff Writer

Donna Goodrich

GALLUP — Donna Goodrich, one of the first two female police officers in New Mexico, is planning another first for McKinley County.

Goodrich announced her candidacy for McKinley County sheriff earlier this month and if successful, she'll be the first female sheriff in county history.

With about 30 years of law enforcement experience, Goodrich said she is ready for the position.

At a young age, Goodrich knew she wanted to become a police officer, although her father wasn't quite sure her dream could become a reality.

"He said they (the local police department) didn't have lady police officers yet."

Goodrich's opportunity came when she worked in Gallup as a "meter maid" and walked nearly 15 miles a day as part of the position. She said she "bugged" the then-police chief to hire her.

And in June 1974 she was hired, sent to the police academy for training and was on patrol by March 1975.

Goodrich shifted between the Gallup Police Department and the McKinley County Sheriff's Department during her career and took a short break to stay home with her daughter. When she left the sheriff's department, Goodrich was a sergeant.

She currently serves as the warden for the McKinley County Adult Detention Center. During her tenure with the jail, Goodrich said she's helped to develop programs, including G.E.D courses, to improve inmates' lives. At least 10 inmates have graduated from the program.

If elected, Goodrich said she plans to re-instate the department's K-9 program and start neighborhood watch programs. She'd also like to start a D.A.R.E curriculum for county schools.

"The drug problem is way out of control," Goodrich said. "If it helped a couple of kids, it would be worth it to me."

As of this week, Goodrich is also the only candidate running as a Republican. Because McKinley County is primarily a Democratic county, Goodrich is certain her political affiliation will affect her chances. However, Goodrich has garnered support from local Democrats.

"A lot of Democrats don't realize they can vote for a Republican," she said.

If elected, Goodrich said she could be willing to maintain her work at the jail.

"That could save the taxpayers some money," she said.