As Genesis Arias stepped into her new role as the sheriff of Luzerne County, she not only broke barriers as the first woman to hold the position but also as the first Hispanic woman to achieve this rank statewide. Her appointment sparked a flurry of congratulatory messages, yet the most touching response came from her young daughter, proud to share the news with classmates.
“I have a little daughter, and she looks up to me,” Arias shared. “I got home, and she’s like, ‘Mom, I can’t believe you’re the first female… I’m so excited for you.'” With such personal milestones, Arias is setting an inspiring example for her family and community.
At 33, Arias commands a team of 50 employees in charge of various law enforcement duties, including courthouse security and inmate transport. Her military background, with deployments to Guantanamo Bay, significantly shaped her career, earning her multiple accolades, including the Army Achievement Medals.
Desire to make a difference
Born to Dominican parents and raised between New York City and New Jersey, Arias moved to Hazleton in 2005, graduating from Hazleton Area High School. Her passion for law enforcement was evident early on, inspired by shows like “Cops” and a desire to protect and serve.
Her journey included a stint at Penn State Hazleton and a significant role as a military police officer. The experiences, particularly guarding detainees during military service, provided her with a robust foundation for her current role.
Arias’ commitment to law enforcement and her community is evident in her plans for the sheriff’s department, focusing on morale and staffing. Her appointment follows the resignation of former sheriff Brian Szumski, with Arias chosen after a thorough selection process.
Plans for the sheriff’s department
County Manager Romilda Crocamo has expressed confidence in Arias’ leadership, highlighting her calm demeanor and respect within the department. Recruitment and retention are set to be immediate priorities for the new sheriff, as she aims to bring the team together to better serve the county.
“She’s absolutely the right choice for Luzerne County,” Crocamo stated, confident in Arias’s capacity to innovate and excel in her new role.
‘Go out there and do it’
Arias’ bilingual skills bridge communication gaps at the courthouse, offering assistance to Spanish-speaking visitors. This personal touch enhances her role, emphasizing the importance of human interaction over technology in communication.
Known affectionately as “Gigi,” Arias resides in Drums with her family. Reflecting on her career path, she encourages others to seize opportunities, saying, “Go out there and do it. Whatever you want to do, the doors are open. You just have to be willing to take that step.”
