YCSO Has Three New Deputies Following High Country Academy Graduation

Published on August 22, 2025

YCSO has three new patrol deputies following the August 21 graduation of Class 6 of the High Country Academy in Flagstaff. We welcome Spenser Earl, Averi Sotelo, and Marshall Stewart to our agency after they successfully completed the 22-week academy and became part of a 10-member graduating class representing five agencies.

Earl, the class speaker, told the large crowd of family, friends and agency representatives, "We learned the importance of communication and teamwork, and I am confident in our ability to persevere through the challenges we will face and to overcome all adversity." He challenged his fellow graduates to "continue to fight to be the best version of us" and to "get stronger, learn as much as we can, and grow in character." He reminded the class that the responsibility grows with the start of their new career, saying "It is not just the 10 of us counting on each other, but now it's our agencies, our communities and our families."

Coconino County Sheriff Bret Axlund, in his keynote speech at the ceremony, said "Law enforcement is challenged more today than ever. You have chosen a path that is not for the faint of heart. It is more than a job. It is a calling. It demands courage when fear would be the easier path, and integrity when no one is watching." Axlund reminded the graduates that compassion is a key trait in their career and exhorted them to "serve your communities with fairness and uphold the public trust. People will remember not just what you did, but also how you made them feel. Your interactions can be the difference between despair and hope." He also thanked the families of the graduates for their past and future support. "You will be the unseen strength behind them. You will carry the worry, make the sacrifices, and stand steadfast. You are part of their service and accomplishments as much as they are," Axlund said.

Sotelo won academy honors as the overall best recruit (Summit Award) and for Physical Fitness. 

If you would like to join these in a great career with YCSO, go to ycsojobs.com or call (928) 708-9276 for information on current openings.