Courtesy photo.
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office announces the retirement of Commander Cathy Allen, effective June 25, 2025, following a distinguished 39-year career in public service and administrative leadership.
Commander Allen began her tenure with the Sheriff’s Office in 1987 as a Financial Management Analyst and steadily advanced to become the Commander of Administrative Services. In this role, she provided oversight to civilian teams in Support Services and Administrative divisions and led major initiatives including grant administration, intergovernmental agreements, contract law enforcement in outlying communities, and budget development. Her leadership contributed to a nearly 200% increase in the civilian workforce, significantly enhancing the department’s operational support functions.
In late 2000, the Sheriff’s Office relocated to the new Law Enforcement Administrative Facility (LEAF), which it shares with the Flagstaff Police Department. Cathy served as the transition team leader for the move and acted as the department liaison with the Flagstaff Police Department. In this role, she coordinated issues related to collocation and shared services, including Information Technology, the implementation of a centralized Records Management System, Telecommunications, Dispatch, Records, Warrants, Facilities Maintenance and Custodial services.
Within the Sheriff’s Office, Cathy has served on numerous committees and boards, including the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission (ACJC), the Coconino County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC), Criminal Justice Integration (CJI), the Public Safety Communication Commission (PSCC), and the Homeland Security Regional Advisory Council (RAC).
Beyond her service with Coconino County, Cathy is well known for her community involvement. She has served over two decades with the Flagstaff Leadership Academy and has volunteered with organizations such as Care and Share Food Bank, Hope Cottage, the American Red Cross, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, the Children’s Chorale of Flagstaff, and the American Society of Women Accountants.
Cathy is also a prominent figure in the local spiritual community, serving as Choir Director, Music Minister, and Vocalist at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church, while lending her voice to various religious services throughout the region.
“Cathy’s dedication to service, both professionally and personally, has left an enduring legacy within our agency and our community,” said Retired Sheriff Jim Driscoll. “Her leadership, values, and commitment to making a difference will be greatly missed.”
The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office extends its deepest gratitude to Commander Cathy Allen for her decades of service and wishes her the very best in retirement.