Sheriff Eliezer “Eli” Rivera, Sheriff of Cheshire County, New Hampshire, is the third President of the Association.

Sheriff Rivera is the first Latino to be elected as Sheriff in New Hampshire, marking a significant milestone in his exemplary career. First elected to office in 2012, he is currently serving his seventh term. His extensive background, both in law enforcement and military service, brings valuable leadership and insight to SRLEEA, which represents over 90% of law enforcement agencies across the United States, focusing on the needs of small, rural, and tribal law enforcement agencies.

“I am honored to take on this role with SRLEEA,” said Sheriff Rivera. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure the voices of small and rural law enforcement agencies are heard and supported. Our communities face unique challenges, and it is critical that we continue to advocate for resources and support to enhance the capabilities of our agencies.”

Sheriff Rivera’s career spans decades of service, beginning with his enlistment in the United States Coast Guard in 1982, where he served honorably for five years before transitioning to the United States Army Reserve for an additional seven years. His law enforcement experience includes working for the Cheshire County New Hampshire Department of Corrections, the Winchester New Hampshire Police Department, and serving as a Lieutenant with the Keene New Hampshire Police Department, where he retired in 2012.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Sheriff Rivera currently serves on the New Hampshire Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission. He is a Team Rubicon Clay Hunt Fellow, supporting disaster response efforts through collaboration with veterans and first responders. Sheriff Rivera also enjoys volunteering with non-profits, outdoor cooking, wood crafting, and focusing on natural habitat restoration with native plants and pollinators.

As the new President of SRLEEA, Sheriff Rivera will be instrumental in furthering the Association’s mission to provide a platform for collaboration, professional development, and advocacy for small, rural, and tribal law enforcement agencies. His leadership is expected to strengthen the SRLEEA’s efforts to support these vital agencies with the resources and training they need to protect and serve their communities effectively.