After a robust career spanning two full decades, Yavapai County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) bids farewell to Detention Services Lt. Shane Chaves who hung up his badge at the close of 2025. His departure marks an end to a legacy that's been part and parcel of the law enforcement community in Prescott and beyond.
Addressing a crowd during Lt. Chaves' retirement ceremony, Chief Deputy Jeff Newnum highlighted the lieutenant's substantial contribution to the planning and design of the new Prescott jail facility, a milestone project unveiled back in 2023. In words obtained by YCSO's official news release, Newnum praised Chaves' character, "Your heart and love for the people of this agency shines through with anyone that interacts with you." Elaborating further, he noted, "You bring a lot of joy and humor to the job. You will be sorely missed."
The celebration wasn't short on accolades, as Capt. Jarrod Winfrey also chimed in to laud Chaves for his consistent positivity and collaborative spirit in tackling issues that cropped up. It's not just the higher-ups who recognize Lt. Chaves' impact; his recognition as YCSO Detention Officer of the Year in 2019 speaks volumes about his service.
Lt. Chaves, whose career kicked off following a stint in the Air Force, laid bare his initial career aspirations in an address remembered by those in attendance. "I just wanted to get my foot in the door and then slide over to patrol," he said, recalling his ambition to be a patrol deputy. Yet, it was the Court Services division that ultimately won his dedication, where he devoted 14 years, "fell in love with the job," and left an indelible mark. In testament to the support that bolstered his career, Lt. Chaves extended his gratitude to his family and colleagues, "I got a lot of help from others in this agency. You all will truly be missed."
The ceremony wasn't devoid of light-hearted farewells either. As Chaves recounted an amusing anecdote, he reminisced about his very first day on the job, humorously noting he was stopped for speeding by a YCSO deputy. "I don't want to be late," was his candid explanation—a now fond memory that drew chuckles from his peers as they looked back on two decades marked by tenacity, camaraderie, and a touch of serendipity that defined his storied career.
