Guest opinion: Aaron Perry made me a better leader
Jared Lloyd, Standard-Examiner
Weber County Sheriff Ryan Arbon talks to the editorial board at the Standard-Examiner on Monday, Jan. 19, 2025.Throughout my career in law enforcement, I have worked with hundreds of deputies, supervisors, commanders, and executives. Very few have earned my respect to the degree that Aaron Perry has.
I have known Aaron for nearly twenty years and had the privilege of working side by side with him for six of those years at the Weber County Sheriff’s Office. During that time, I came to know him not only as an exceptional law enforcement leader, but as a man of unwavering integrity, humility, and character.
When Aaron joined the Weber County Sheriff’s Office as our Corrections Chief in 2019, he stepped into one of the most demanding leadership positions in our organization. Soon afterward, our profession faced unprecedented challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic strained resources and staffing. Communities across the nation experienced uncertainty and social unrest. Public safety agencies were asked to navigate circumstances unlike anything most of us had experienced before.
Aaron never wavered.
He approached every challenge with calm determination, professionalism, and a relentless commitment to finding solutions. He worked closely with judges, prosecutors, law enforcement leaders, and community partners to ensure our jail remained safe, secure, and effective while treating people with dignity and respect.
His accomplishments speak for themselves. Aaron graduated from the FBI National Academy, one of the most respected leadership programs in law enforcement. He was recognized by his peers as the Utah Sheriffs’ Association Jail Commander of the Year. He later served with distinction as our Enforcement Chief and Administrative Chief, helping lead one of Utah’s largest sheriff’s offices.
Yet awards and titles are not what define Aaron Perry.
What defines him is the way he treats people.
Aaron listens. He values differing opinions. He seeks understanding before making decisions. He is approachable, thoughtful, and genuinely interested in the well-being of others. He has the rare ability to bring people together, build trust, and solve problems without seeking recognition for himself.
Over the years, I watched Aaron earn the respect of deputies, corrections officers, county leaders, members of the judiciary, and community members alike. Respect cannot be demanded; it must be earned. Aaron earned it through consistent actions, day after day, year after year.
On a personal level, Aaron made me a better leader. He challenged me to think differently, to listen more carefully, and to lead with greater purpose. I consider myself fortunate to have worked alongside him.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aaron is a devoted husband, father, and son. His faith, his family, and his commitment to service are not campaign slogans–they are principles that guide the way he lives his life.
The citizens of Davis County deserve a sheriff who possesses not only experience and competence, but also integrity, sound judgment, and a genuine heart for service. Having known Aaron Perry for nearly two decades and worked closely with him through some of the most challenging years in modern law enforcement, I can say without hesitation that he is that person.
I respectfully encourage the voters of Davis County to support Aaron Perry for Sheriff.
Sincerely,
Ryan Arbon
Weber County Sheriff

