BAYARD, Neb. — Ricky Trevino, a former sergeant with the Morrill County Sheriff’s Office, has announced his candidacy for sheriff in the May 2026 Republican primary.

A Bayard native and veteran law enforcement officer, Trevino shared his decision after officially concluding his time with the department this month. He said the move follows deep reflection and a long-standing desire to lead the agency where he served since 2017.

“This will be the first sheriff election in our county since 2010, and I’m ready to step up and serve our community in this new role if given the honor and privilege,” Trevino said in a statement.

Trevino emphasized a vision for the sheriff’s office built on trust, visibility and collaboration. Citing concerns over strained relationships with residents and emergency responders, Trevino said he wants to lead a department that reflects the values of the community it serves.

“Over the years, I’ve seen how law enforcement here has shifted its focus more toward citations and arrests, often at the expense of building meaningful relationships with residents,” Trevino said. “Law enforcement should be approachable and visible - not just present when there’s a problem.”

Trevino also confirmed he expects to face current Sheriff Milo Cardenas in the Republican primary.

“I believe this election is an important opportunity for Morrill County to choose a leader committed to serving a full term with a long-term vision,” Trevino said. “I hold no ill will against Sheriff Cardenas.”

A Bayard High School graduate, Trevino began his law enforcement career with the University of Nebraska at Kearney Police Department in 2016. He joined the Morrill County Sheriff’s Office the following year and worked his way up to sergeant. He is certified as a Field Training Officer, is bilingual in Spanish and has led investigations into major cases involving sexual assault, child exploitation, drug distribution, and burglary.

Trevino said he’ll run on four key priorities: building stronger community ties, addressing the meth and fentanyl crisis, improving cooperation among public safety agencies and ensuring professionalism and accountability across the department.

“I’m not just a deputy or a sergeant - I’m a neighbor and a trusted resource,” he said. “As sheriff, I will work to ensure that every deputy embraces this community-first mindset, making our office a true partner in public safety.”

Trevino lives in Morrill County with his family. He said his campaign is rooted in the values that shaped him as a student-athlete, law enforcement officer and father.

“Morrill County is where I was raised, and it’s where I’m raising my own kids,” Trevino said. “This place made me who I am, and I want to give back.”