Heather Lappin boasts an impressive 19-year career with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department in Tucson, Arizona. Currently serving as the East Section Commander at the Pima County Adult Detention Center, she dedicates herself to improving morale and culture within the facility. 

 

Prior to her current position, she served as the Training Section Commander, overseeing training programs for commissioned and corrections personnel, including firearms, academy, and advanced officer training. Heather has held diverse assignments, including Advanced Training Specialist at AZPOST, District Commander, and work in Internal Affairs. Early in her career, she specialized in training, earning recognition as an AZPOST Subject Matter Expert in the Field Training Program and instructor-level certifications in defensive tactics, firearms, physical fitness, and high-risk stops.

 

Heather's commitment to professional growth extends to her attendance at renowned leadership schools nationwide, including the Senior Management Institute for Police, Department of Homeland Security’s Leadership Academy, Northwestern School of Police Staff and Command, and Transform Law Enforcement. Her formal education includes an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Arizona State University. Currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership at NAU, Heather also serves as an adjunct professor at Pima Community College.

 

Recognized for her community involvement, Heather was appointed to the Tucson Women’s Commission in 2021. Beyond her career, Heather treasures her 21-year marriage and three children. She has held leadership positions in various booster clubs, parent-teacher organizations, and youth sports. In her free time, she enjoys CrossFit and passionately supports her children's competitive sports endeavors.