Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
2024
Annual Report
Year in Review
The year 2024 marked the second year in office for Sheriff Reggie Marinelli. This annual report highlights some of the activities, events, and outcomes of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office during the year.
Edovo Digital Education Platform
In June 2024, the Detention Services Division launched the Edovo Digital Education Program on inmate tablets, significantly expanding access to academic and rehabilitative resources. The platform includes comprehensive study materials for both the GED and HiSET exams covering math, science, social studies, and language arts, with content from partners such as Khan Academy, Mometrix Academy, and DCS GED® Prep. In the first four months alone, over 1,000 inmates engaged with Edovo, completing more than 2,800 courses and logging over 10,000 productive hours. The program has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback and reinforces the agency’s commitment to education and reentry success.
PowerEngage Launched
PowerEngage, a complete citizen engagement software and feedback tool, was launched in 2024. PowerEngage allows citizens to send and receive text messages on their cell phone with the Jeffcom Dispatch Center, which can be enormously beneficial in a life-threatening situation. It also allows Jeffcom to send updates to a person regarding their call for service such as vehicle collisions, burglaries, assaults, robberies, and incomplete 911 calls. Additionally, Jeffcom can text information to citizens regarding anticipated arrival times for deputies and guidance on what the citizen should do prior to the deputy arriving.
Records Requests Now Online
In September 2024, the JCSO went paperless for all record request submissions. All requests, including Body Worn Camera videos and Animal Control records, are now submitted via our online platform, NextRequest. For those patrons with accessibility needs, the Records Unit provides paper request forms, and the Records staff manually inputs their request into NextRequest on their behalf. The Records Unit also provides iPads for requestors to submit their requests in person. All records will be released to the requestor via NextRequest. Hard copies of records can be created for requesters without emails, and by individual request for an additional fee.
Protect, Serve, and Enforce
Our mission is simply stated. It is meaningful. It resonates with each of us.
Values
Our values must be fully understood, practiced, shared, and vigorously defended. We are honest, forthright, and courageous in all we do. We are accountable to the public and ourselves. Our tradition holds that we serve our diverse communities with excellence. We honor our oath of office and the people we serve. We enforce the law with equity, compassion, and respect for all individual rights.
Vision
Our vision for Jefferson County is to be a safe place for all to live, learn, work, and play.
Patrol Division
The Patrol Division responds to emergency and routine calls for service, enforces criminal and traffic laws, and provides animal control services in unincorporated Jefferson County. Patrol deputies operate from three community-based precincts serving the north, south, and mountain regions of the county.
Staffing
Total actual staffing for the Patrol Division is 190 employees, with 175 of those sworn along with 15 professional employees. Patrol deputies have opportunities to serve in ancillary roles, such as a Field Training Instructor, Crime Scene Technician, Drone Pilot, Crisis Intervention Technician, and many more.
Calls for Service by Precinct
Largest to smallest, in calls: South Precinct 98,760, North Precinct 66,037, Mountain Precinct 50,336.
Chart description (accessibility)
Largest to smallest, in calls: South Precinct 98,760, North Precinct 66,037, Mountain Precinct 50,336.
As published in the 2024 report. The 2024 total (215,133) is much higher than 2023 (152,142) or 2025 (125,379); the reports don’t explain the difference.
School Resource Officer & Animal Control
School Resource Officers serve public middle schools and high schools in unincorporated Jefferson County to help provide security, safety, resources, and guidance for students. The Unit also serves Warren Tech’s south campus and five charter schools. In 2024, the JCSO received 1,260 Safe2Tell reports, most of which were handled by SROs. This is a 23% increase from 2023. Animal Control Officers respond to wildlife and domestic animal-related calls for service; investigate allegations of animal abuse; enforce leash laws, vaccination requirements, and bite quarantines; regulate barking, dangerous, or vicious dogs; and remove dead animals when necessary. In 2024, Animal Control issued 364 summonses, 51% of those were for unlicensed dogs.
Bicycle & K9
The Bicycle Unit responds to area checks, community events, missing persons, focused patrols, search and rescue incidents, and natural disaster response. The team has one commander, two sergeants, nine deputies, and three reserve deputies. In 2024, they had 53 deployments and rode 334 miles. The K9 Unit is used for searches, criminal apprehension, tracking, and community outreach/education. During the year, the Unit participated in 216 searches, 47 apprehensions, 24 tracking missions, 33 demonstrations, and 76 calls for assistance to other agencies.
DOU & SWAT
The Directed Operations Unit mitigates chronic criminal activity through targeted operations that include high visibility saturations, surveillance, neighborhood knock-and-talks, and information-sharing with other agencies. In 2024, the team had 84 felony arrests and 58 recovered stolen vehicles. These high numbers are due in part to the Grappler and Flock Camera tools initiated in 2023. The regional Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) team utilizes members of the JCSO and Arvada, Edgewater, and Golden Police Departments for high-risk incidents requiring multiple disciplines, skilled training, and specialized weapons and tactics. SWAT was activated 19 times in 2024, with approximately 1,202 total operational man hours.
Drone & Bomb Squad
The Drone Unit is a 24/7 on-call team that responds to search and rescue incidents, crime scene support, natural disaster response, and tactical situations. The Unit has 11 Patrol and Detentions deputies in ancillary roles. They responded to 56 callouts in 2024. The Bomb Squad is the only explosive ordnance disposal team in Jefferson County, rendering suspected explosive devices and hazardous materials safe. This unit responded to 106 calls for service, both within the county and to assist other agencies.
Traffic
The Traffic Unit enforces traffic laws and coordinates grant-funded speed, seatbelt, and DUI enforcement activities in an effort to reduce crashes resulting in injuries or deaths. In 2024, a total of 245 seat belt violations were issued during two Click It or Ticket enforcement operations. Speed mitigation grants resulted in 1,522 summonses on Highways 93 and 285. Deputies working this grant only target speeders going 15 MPH or more over the speed limit. The DUI Saturation grant gave deputies the opportunity to work educational events where they spoke to approximately 3,500 people, and made a total of 211 DUI arrests in 2024. DUI arrests that were part of a larger investigation involving multiple criminal charges were classified in categories other than DUI.
Quarry Wildland Fire
On the night of July 28, 2024, a wildland fire was discovered in Deer Creek Canyon by a deputy on routine patrol. As the fire rapidly grew, numerous deputies responded to assist in evacuating hundreds of homes. Over the next 10 days, the fire spread to over 600 acres, requiring resources from every division within the Sheriff’s Office. Given the fire’s complexity and the significant risks involved, residents were unable to return to their homes for more than a week. Deputies maintained round-the-clock traffic control, conducted security patrols, provided comfort to distraught residents, and ensured continuous communication to keep the community informed. The Animal Control Unit activated the J-CART team, which successfully evacuated and cared for over 500 animals. Thanks to their deep community ties, the team also received over $13,000 in donations to support animal care. This event underscored the exceptional teamwork within our agency, as well as the valuable partnerships we share with local fire and EMS providers, businesses, and the community.
Police Week
During the week of May 15, 2024, several members of the JCSO Patrol Division attended National Police Week in Washington, DC. We paid tribute to the 10th anniversary of Sgt. Dave Baldwin’s line-of-duty death, escorting his surviving spouse in the process. At the National Police Memorial, we also honored and remembered our other five deputies who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community. Additionally, we attended the National Police K9 Memorial, where our own K9 Graffit was recognized for his line-of-duty death in February 2023.
Criminal Investigations Division
CID investigates all felony crimes, and some select misdemeanor crimes. CID then presents these cases to the 1st Judicial District Attorney’s Office for prosecution. In 2024, total authorized staff for CID was 83 FTE, including 52 sworn and 31 professional staff. The division is comprised of the following sections:
Crime Scene Unit
This unit processes crime scenes, conducts data extractions on cell phones, and manages the digital archive of crime scene-related photos. The unit also provides a 40-hour training for deputies to become Crime Scene Technicians. In 2024, the CSU responded to 250 call-outs for the Sheriff’s Office and neighboring jurisdictions, including eight Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) incidents and four homicides.
Victim Services Unit
Victim Services provides support and resources to victims and witnesses of crime or other traumatic events. The unit facilitates crisis intervention services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, physical abuse, human trafficking, and other violent crimes. They also provide support in all death cases, including unattended deaths and suicides. In 2024, the VSU responded on scene to 909 incidents and by phone to an additional 957 incidents. VAs were assigned 2,720 cases in 2024 and served over 3,600 individual victims. In addition, our volunteer VAs donated 1,035 hours of direct service to victims.
Property Crimes
Specialized units within the division include the Polygraph Unit, along with the following: This section incorporates Property Crimes, Financial Crimes, and Evidence, as well as the Colorado Metropolitan Auto Theft Task Force (CMATT). In 2024, there was a significant decrease in motor vehicle thefts.
Motor Vehicle Theft and Trespass, 2023 to 2024
Motor vehicle theft fell 38%, from 599 in 2023 to 373 in 2024. Criminal trespass to motor vehicle fell 18%, from 500 in 2023 to 411 in 2024.
Chart description (accessibility)
Motor vehicle theft fell 38%, from 599 in 2023 to 373 in 2024. Criminal trespass to motor vehicle fell 18%, from 500 in 2023 to 411 in 2024.
The printed report labels the vehicle-theft change “62%”, which is 2024 as a share of 2023, so the decrease is 38%. The 2023 figures are as printed in this report. JCSO’s quarterly LEA reports counted 438–451 motor vehicle thefts in 2023 and 351–365 in 2024 (first published and latest revision), a decrease of 19–20%.
Special Investigations, CHEEZO & Crime Lab
Special Investigations: The Special Investigations Unit collects, analyzes, maintains, and disseminates intelligence and information related to terrorism, organized crime, street gangs, government threats, and more. The Unit includes investigators specializing in intelligence, fugitive apprehension, Crimes Against Children, CHEEZO, as well as several multi-agency task forces. In October 2024, the Family Crimes Unit was disbanded and investigators were reassigned to CAC or Major Crimes. Child Sex Offender Internet Investigation (CHEEZO): This unit investigates adults who utilize technology to lure children for sexual purposes. This unit also provides education on technology safety to children, teenagers, and their parents. In 2024, CHEEZO made 26 arrests and educated approximately 4,200 students on the dangers of technology. The Jefferson County Regional Crime Laboratory (JCRCL): The JCRCL provides analysis of, and expert witness testimony for, drug chemistry, latent print processing, forensic biology, and firearms examination. In 2024, the lab fulfilled 428 firearms-related requests.
National Integrated Ballistic Intelligence Network (NIBIN)
In 2023, the Jefferson County Regional Crime Lab (JCRCL) secured a $368,866 grant through the Local Crime Gun Intelligence Center Integration Initiative, catalyzing major advancements in firearms evidence processing. In 2024, the JCRCL deployed National Integrated Ballistic Intelligence Network (NIBIN) equipment, enabling analysts to scan and compare three-dimensional images of fired cartridge cases to identify links between shooting events and generate investigative leads. This upgrade was complemented by a comprehensive review of firearms evidence procedures by the Criminal Investigations Division and the acquisition of a GD Gunsmith bullet trap for efficient test firing. By mid-2024, NIBIN equipment was fully operational, and analyst training was completed by November. Since its inception, the Sheriff’s Office processed 288 firearms—ranging from handguns to shotguns—with 45% tied to criminal offenses, significantly enhancing the county’s ability to trace and combat gun-related crime.
Significant Investigations
The West Metro Drug Task Force (WMDTF) spent the majority of 2024 investigating a significant Drug Trafficking Organization and conducting a Title III wiretap investigation. Combined, the team worked 1,135 hours of overtime on this investigation. It resulted in numerous arrests and seizures in multiple states with the cooperation of many local, state, and federal partners. During that operation, the WMDTF seized 24 firearms (many of which had been stolen), 11 vehicles, and 19 arrests. They also collected nearly 25 pounds of fentanyl, 72 pounds of meth, and eight pounds of other drugs including heroin, cocaine, MDMA, and ketamine. In total, the WMDTF removed nearly 200 pounds of illegal narcotics from the street and recovered 47 firearms in 2024. They opened 113 cases of their own and filed 259 patrol drug cases with the 1st Judicial District Attorney’s Office. The Major Crimes Unit handled several high profile cases including four homicides, five attempted homicides, and one very disturbing crime against an at-risk person resulting in death. In that case, investigators arrested Brian Seitz and Laura Prats who were caregivers of Brian’s elderly mother, Sheryl Seitz. On April 29, Sheryl was discovered by fire personnel lying on an air mattress in a garage covered in filth and maggots. She was transported to Lutheran Hospital where it was discovered she was suffering from bed sores, two hip fractures, a loosely connected wrist, ulcers, septic shock and maggots burrowing into her body. She died in the hospital on April 30, 2024. Investigators charged both Brian and Laura in connection to Sheryl’s death. In the second half of 2024, homes in Jefferson County mobile home parks were burglarized by a Latino male. The Latino victims felt violated and reached out to the media for help. Property Unit investigators took on the cases and submitted evidence for forensic analysis, which helped identify the suspect. Still images were compared across cases to further link him to additional burglaries. A Spanish-speaking investigator built a meaningful relationship with the victims, fostering trust between the Sheriff’s Office and the Latino community. This trust encouraged previously reluctant victims to come forward. In total, investigators cleared six burglary cases in Jefferson County. The suspect was subsequently connected to multiple other burglaries across the region. In September, a Jeffco resident reported approximately $4,000 in fraudulent credit card transactions, some of which originated in Hawaii. Law enforcement in Hawaii contacted a 19-year-old female suspect at a beach resort, who was found with 50 full identity and financial profiles, including that of our victim. The suspect traveled to Vegas, Maui, and Kona using these identities. Her last trip was to jail where she was charged with a variety of crimes. The investigation is ongoing. On the morning of April 28, a mother in Aurora discovered her 13-year-old daughter missing from home. Shortly after, an Uber returned the teen. The driver informed the parents he had picked her up from a residence on West Berry Avenue. An investigation revealed the girl had been communicating via social media with 39-year-old Kyle Richard Cerise, who lives at that address. The night before, Cerise arranged for an Uber to bring the teen to his home, where he gave the girl cocaine and had sex with her. On April 29, Cerise was arrested on charges of sexual assault on a child, sexual exploitation of a child, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Headline News
JCSO Deputies Involved in Fatal Shooting
On February 29, deputies found a disabled vehicle on northbound Kipling near I-70. Noticing suspicious behavior, a deputy called for backup. When more deputies arrived, the male driver and female passenger were walking around and ignored commands. As deputies ordered the man to remove his hands from his coat, he drew a handgun and fired. Two deputies returned fire, hitting him multiple times. He received first aid but later died at the hospital. No deputies or bystanders were hurt. Two handguns were recovered. The suspect had an active warrant for attempted 1st degree murder. The First Judicial DA’s Critical Incident Response Team investigated the case and cleared both deputies.
Man shot, killed visiting gravesite at Wheat Ridge cemetery Saturday night; suspect arrested
On August 17, deputies responded to a shooting at Crown Hill Cemetery. A man was found with a fatal gunshot wound, and a woman was transported to the hospital with a non life-threatening gunshot wound. A perimeter was set up, and all involved individuals were detained. The suspect, Ryan Trujillo-Falcon, was found within the area and arrested. The group had gathered to visit a friend’s gravesite when a fight broke out, leading to the shooting. Trujillo-Falcon is charged with 1st degree murder and 2nd degree assault.
Colorado man charged with first-degree murder after allegedly killing roommate in Jefferson County
On February 24, Jeffcom Dispatch received a 911 call from a male who reported that he had been involved in a shooting in the 4700 block of Parmalee Gulch Road. Deputies arrived at the scene and encountered an adult male in the driveway near the residence. The male, 53-year-old Bobby Knapp, was taken into custody pending further investigation. During a search of the home, deputies discovered a deceased adult male who had suffered gunshot wounds. Investigators determined that Knapp and the victim were former roommates and were involved in an altercation when the shooting occurred. Knapp faces charges for 1st degree murder.
Juvenile Shot After Trespassing
On September 10, deputies responded to a shooting on Pleasant Park Road after a homeowner reported two trespassers. When they arrived, they found a 17-year-old male with a gunshot wound to the face and another juvenile helping him. The victim said he and a friend had stepped onto the property, hoping to get permission to take homecoming photos there. After failing to find the homeowner, they returned to their car to leave a note. At that point, Brent Metz, the homeowner’s boyfriend, arrived and allegedly shot the teen through the windshield. Metz was arrested and faces charges including 1st degree assault, felony menacing, illegal discharge of a firearm, and reckless endangerment.
Two Suspects Arrested for Crimes Against an At-Risk Person—Resulting in Death
On May 1, two suspects were arrested in connection with the death of 58-year-old Sheryl Seitz, an at-risk adult under their care. The suspects—Sheryl’s son, Brian Seitz, and his girlfriend, Laura Prats—had been her caregivers for several years. The case began on April 29, when Arvada Fire responded to a medical call at an Airbnb in the 6400 block of Kendall Street. Sheryl was found in a garage—covered in filth and maggots. She was taken to Lutheran Hospital with severe injuries and infections, including bedsores, fractures, and septic shock. She died the next day. The investigation revealed that the crimes likely occurred at an RV storage lot on W. 56th Avenue, where all three lived separately. Sheryl’s RV lacked basic necessities like running water or a bed. Both suspects had been receiving state funds to provide over 80 hours of weekly care. Brian Seitz and Laura Prats were charged with crimes against an at-risk person resulting in death and serious bodily injury.
Hatchet Attack Leads to Arrest
On November 6, deputies arrested 35-year-old Bradley Lindsey after he allegedly attacked a man with a hatchet at a home in the 3400 block of Burnham Drive. An alarmed neighbor called 911 after encountering Lindsey, who acted suspiciously and told him to call the police. Deputies arrived to find Lindsey covered in blood and a 61-year-old man injured. The victim, a tenant being evicted by the homeowner, was hospitalized with serious injuries and later released. Lindsey, who was unknown to the homeowner, is charged with attempted 1st degree homicide.
Four Arrested for Attempted Murder
Four suspects are in custody, accused of attempted first degree murder for their roles in kidnapping and torturing a fellow housemate. The incident occurred in the 4700 block of South Oak Court. At about 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 16, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office was first alerted to the incident after a hospital staff member reported a male patient who claimed to have been tied up and tortured over a 14-hour period. The victim, a 45-year-old man, sustained injuries stemming from being tied up, beaten, burned, and whipped. He also sustained serious bodily injury after one of the suspects stepped on his neck, applying enough pressure to cause him to lose consciousness. SWAT officers arrested the homeowner, Jason Carlson, along with Sherell Allen and Luke Anaya at the residence. A fourth suspect, Jimmy Ray Smith II, was tracked down by the JCSO Fugitive Team and arrested on Sept. 30. They all face charges including attempted 1st degree murder, kidnapping, and assault. They are being held on cash-only bonds between $150,000 and $300,000.
Detention Services Division
The Detention Services Division manages the Jefferson County Detention Facility, which serves as the central jail for local law enforcement agencies within the county, as well as the U.S. Marshals Service. The 286,000 sq. ft. building has an operational capacity of 1,260 for inmates and pre-trial detainees.
Facility Overview
In 2024, the average daily population was 872, with an additional average of 191 in custody outside the facility. Eligible inmates may participate in work release (external employment) or inmate worker (internal jobs) programs. Medical services, chaplaincy, counseling, and programs intended to reduce recidivism are available for inmates. In 2024, the Sheriff’s Office employed 393 full-time employees in this division. In the jail, detention deputies have the option to serve in specialized housing units, as Field Training Instructors, Crime Scene Technicians, Drone Operators, on the Special Operations Response Team (SORT), and/or in the Gang Intelligence Unit, among other opportunities. The mission of the Detention Facility is to remain responsive to community needs, maintain a safe and secure facility, and provide varied services and programs for inmate stability and enrichment.
Average Daily Population Composition
In bar order: Pre-Trial 61%, Convicted 3%, Sentenced & Men’s Work Release 18%, Other 18%. Largest: Pre-Trial.
Chart description (accessibility)
In bar order: Pre-Trial 61%, Convicted 3%, Sentenced & Men’s Work Release 18%, Other 18%. Largest: Pre-Trial.
As printed. The three named groups add up to 82%, and “Other” (18%) equals the work-release share; the 2023 and 2025 reports have no “Other” group.
Honor Guard
In January 2024, the Honor Guard moved from Support Services to Detention Services
Booking, Transportation & Inmate Services
The Booking Unit ensures legal, accurate, timely, and safe processing of arrested individuals before they are moved into the Classification Unit. In 2024, the number of inmates booked into the jail decreased by 0.51% from 2023, for a total of 15,942. Of these, 12% were booked on more than one occasion. The Transportation Unit ensures the safe transport of inmates for court appearances, transfer to other detention facilities, and medical appointments as required. In 2024, this unit saw a 4.63% decrease in transports from 2023 and a 2.71% decrease in total miles driven: 128,559. The Inmate Services Unit (ISU) is responsible for releasing inmates and managing administrative and accounting duties related to inmates. To comply with the law created in 2023, ISU technicians must also now communicate with judicial offices statewide to obtain additional inmate information and schedule virtual court dates for qualifying cases. During the year, ISU initiated 11,776 bonds, entered 14,902 bookings, and prepared 16,049 inmates for release or transfer.
Initiatives
In-Person Inmate Voting: In October, the Detention Services Division developed and executed a comprehensive process for in-person inmate voting in response to a new statutory requirement. In partnership with the Clerk and Recorder’s Office, 20 election judges and support personnel entered the facility with a full complement of voting equipment to ensure secure and efficient access. All eligible inmates were given the opportunity to vote in person. Combined with the jail’s existing hybrid/mail-in process, approximately 350 inmates participated in the 2024 general election, 100 of those during the on-site process; the highest voter turnout in facility history. Digital Mail System Implementation: In February, Detentions transitioned to a digital mail system to enhance safety and reduce contraband risk. Under the new process, all inmate mail is sent to an offsite contractor, where it is scanned and digitally uploaded. After deputy review, inmates can access their mail securely through facility kiosks and electronic tablets. This transition eliminated the intake of physical mail, significantly reducing the potential for contraband introduction while maintaining inmate communication access. Security Enhancements: In 2024, the division completed a series of targeted physical security improvements. Two new sally ports were installed at kitchen access points, one leading to the supply hallway and another to the Officer’s Dining Room (ODR), to control movement and address longstanding security concerns. In the supply yard, razor wire was added to perimeter fencing, and climbable equipment was relocated to reduce escape risk. Exterior lighting was improved in the lobby parking lot to enhance visibility, and additional external security cameras were installed to expand surveillance coverage around the facility.
Support Services Division
Support Services provides internal support and manages many administrative tasks essential to all functions of the JCSO. In 2024, the division had 82 authorized personnel (15 sworn and 67 professional staff) and was responsible for the functions listed below, as well as Volunteer Services and the Mounted Patrol.
Asset Management
Includes Fleet, Supply, and Building Maintenance. Fleet maintains patrol and duty vehicles, as well as heavy equipment such as the command bus, Sno-Cat, and specialized vehicles for the bomb squad, SWAT, and Animal Control. Supply provides uniforms, manages the mail, and maintains the ordering system for office supplies, clothing, and other resources. Building Maintenance repairs and maintains building operations, including electrical, plumbing, painting, and carpentry.
Business and Finance
Develops the annual budget, provides human resources needs, and manages payroll processes, grant funding, billing, and financial records.
Information Services
Includes Technical Services and Records. Technical Services (IT) supports system networks, manages database administration, provides desktop support, responds to service requests, and maintains the agency’s radios. The Records Section maintains public records per the retention policy, responds to open records requests, processes concealed handgun permits, manages traffic citations, maintains warrants, and does fingerprinting for select application processes.
Recruiting
Ensures qualified individuals are hired by promoting open positions; manages the application, testing and interview processes; conducts background checks; and schedules polygraph, medical, and psychological exams for applicants.
Training
Ensures new recruits and current employees meet training requirements for their roles within the agency. This section includes the training academies: In 2024, there were two JCSO and Lakewood Police Department Combined Regional Law Enforcement Academies; 19 graduates joined the JCSO (26% women, 16% minorities).
Initiatives
Transition to Axon – The JCSO was able to finalize a contract with AXON, who will provide upgraded Taser technology, Evidence Management Systems, and Body Worn Cameras. The Sheriff’s Office made significant expansion to Emergency Services capacity and response resilience to include: Creation of a Wildland Fire Response and Mitigation Unit. Creation of ancillary positions to enhance hazardous materials response. Significant increase in emergency management staffing. Significant increase in JCSO employees assigned to the Sheriff’s Incident Management Team. Creation of program to train and support deputies to obtain Fireline Red Card certification, including hands-on training alongside wildland firefighters working in the wildland fire environment. Finalize and select a new Record Management System and Jail Management System to replace the old and outdated Tiburon Record Management System. Bolster our recruiting and retention efforts to hire and retain quality sworn and professional staff.
Volunteers
Donated 25,591 hours of their time to the JCSO in 2024:
Volunteer Hours by Program
Largest to smallest, in hours: Volunteer Victim Advocates 7,004, Range Instructors 6,030, Reserve Deputies 4,114, General purpose 2,865, Jail Chaplaincy 2,501, Explorers 1,801, LE Chaplains 1,276.
Chart description (accessibility)
Largest to smallest, in hours: Volunteer Victim Advocates 7,004, Range Instructors 6,030, Reserve Deputies 4,114, General purpose 2,865, Jail Chaplaincy 2,501, Explorers 1,801, LE Chaplains 1,276.
Budget & Finance
Criminal Investigations includes general investigations, special investigations, victim services, the regional crime lab, and the evidence vault. Detention Services includes the detention facility, inmate welfare, court security, civil unit, and honor guard. Executive includes the sheriff, undersheriff, executive staff, internal investigations, staff inspections, planning and research, accreditation, and public affairs. The Patrol Division includes routine patrol activities, traffic, school resource officers, special units, and animal control. Support Services includes business and finance functions, information technology, public records, recruiting, training, emergency services, building maintenance, fleet management, supply, peer support, and volunteer programs.
Budget Breakdown
Total expenditures by division — $131,158,506
Detentions receives the largest share at 44.1%, followed by Support Services at 22.8%, Patrol at 20.4%, Criminal Investigations at 10.2%, and Executive at 2.5%.
Chart description (accessibility)
Detentions receives the largest share at 44.1%, followed by Support Services at 22.8%, Patrol at 20.4%, Criminal Investigations at 10.2%, and Executive at 2.5%.
Accreditation
The JCSO has achieved and maintained national accreditation in law enforcement and detention facility supervision, programs, and services. Additionally, the Jefferson County Regional Crime Laboratory holds national accreditation. Accreditation involves a systematic, third-party review of an agency’s policies, procedures, training, and operations, measured against industry standards, regulations, and best practices. This process enhances accountability, improves community relations, elevates professionalism, and reduces liability. Accreditation is a voluntary endeavor for law enforcement agencies, and the JCSO is proud to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), the American Correctional Association (ACA), and the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare (NCCHC). As of the report’s publication (April 2025).
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA)
Law Enforcement
- Number of standards – 463
- Original accreditation received in 1992
- A total of 10 re-accreditations achieved
- Agency policies and practices reviewed: annually & on-site audit every 4th year
- Most recent re-accreditation audit: December 2024
- Upcoming re-accreditation on-site audit: December 2028
American Correctional Association (ACA)
Detention Facility
- Number of standards – 422
- Original accreditation received in 1999
- A total of 9 re-accreditations achieved
- Agency policies and practices reviewed: annually & on-site audit every 3rd year
- Most recent re-accreditation audit: October 2023
- Upcoming re-accreditation audit: October 2026
National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC)
Detention Facility
- Number of standards – 55
- Original accreditation received in 2008
- A total of 4 re-accreditations achieved
- Medical policies and practices reviewed: on-site audit every 3rd year
- Most recent re-accreditation audit: December 2020
- Upcoming re-accreditation audit: NCCHC is currently delayed in scheduling facility audits
Community, Charity & Employee Events
The JCSO and West Metro FOP Lodge 18 hosted their annual Day of Remembrance memorial ceremony in the Memorial Garden. The event was attended by family members of our fallen heroes, employees, and special guests.
Many employees and their families participate in the annual Evergreen Rodeo Parade to kick off the Evergreen Rodeo. For the parade, the JCSO contingent includes a hayrack, motorcycles, and our Mounted Patrol. After the parade, crime prevention deputies share public safety tips and information with rodeo enthusiasts throughout the day.
Twice each year, the JCSO hosts Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Drug Take Back events at three locations in unincorporated Jeffco, to provide residents an opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted, unused, or expired medications. In 2024, citizens dropped off more than 727 pounds of prescription meds during these events. The public can also safely dispose of medication year-round at one of our four medication drop boxes located in each public lobby (including the jail) during business hours.
In 2024, the Detention Division’s Special Operations Response Team (SORT) organized its 6th annual charity ruck march. We had 16 deputies, along with family members and friends who participated. They marched nearly five miles, carrying packs ranging from 20–40 pounds each, filled with donated food, toys, and clothing to deliver to The Action Center.
Each year, the JCSO participates in Take Your Kid to Work Day by inviting employees and their kids to observe a K9 demonstration; climb on and explore emergency equipment including Bomb Squad and SWAT vehicles; practice shooting with a TI simulator system; process candy as evidence; and meet the sheriff, command staff, deputies, and other personnel.
Each April, victim advocates, investigators, and others from the JCSO are among the agencies who join the District Attorney’s Office for the Courage Walk at the Jeffco Courthouse. The walk is to support and inspire survivors of crime and their families, as well as remember those lost to violent crime. The event is held during Crime Victims’ Rights Week and 2024 marked the 31st year.
The JCSO hosts Shred-a-Thon events each year to benefit Metro Denver Crime Stoppers. For a donation to Crime Stoppers, residents can drop off up to three bags or boxes of personal documents for safe disposal at one of multiple sites in the Denver Metro area. At the Sheriff’s Office location, 1,660 vehicles dropped off nearly 50,000 pounds of documents and collected $14,000 in donations for Crime Stoppers.
Each year, Jefferson County teens ages 14–18, participate in the JCSO’s Youth Academy. This free, week-long academy includes Patrol, Investigations, and Detention Divisions, showcasing K9, SWAT, DUI simulation and many other hands-on educational activities. In 2024, 38 Jeffco youth participated in the summer academy.
Each fall, the JCSO hosts a Citizens’ Academy to increase public awareness of law enforcement responsibilities and functions. This interactive, 10-week academy includes educational presentations, facility tours, and demonstrations. In 2024, 24 Jeffco residents participated in the academy.
The JCSO participated in National Coffee with a Cop day in a slightly different way in 2024. Instead of going to coffee shops, we invited the public to come to our headquarters for coffee and snacks. We hosted an event in the morning and another in the early evening.
National Night Out (NNO) takes place on the first Tuesday of August each year. Traditionally, sworn deputies and command staff attend about two dozen neighborhood and community events throughout unincorporated Jeffco. In 2024, the Quarry Fire kept us from having our normal heavy presence at these events, but we still managed to attend 22 events!
Each holiday season, the JCSO participates in Christmas Crusade for Children to provide gifts for underprivileged kids in the Denver Metro area. They are identified by our School Resource Officers and school administrators. Employees help by sponsoring a child, donating gifts or money, volunteering for the phone bank, shopping for gifts, and sorting gifts for delivery by Christmas. In 2024, 108 Jeffco children benefitted from the Christmas Crusade.
Other events with JCSO participation included:
- West Metro Fire Muster
- Foothills Fire Pancake Breakfast
- Genesee Fire Open House
- Arvada Fire Safety Fair
- Boo-Rific
- Stoney Creek Elementary School Trunk or Treat
- Jeffcom Trunk or Treat
- Jeffco Schools Back to School Bash
- Leawood Annual Parade and Picnic
- Kendallvue Elementary Community Picnic
Honors
Sworn and professional staff are recognized each year for their public safety successes, exemplary performance, and professional achievements. The ceremony for accomplishments in 2024 was held on March 20, 2025.
The Medal of Valor is the highest award given for an outstanding act of heroism. On February 29, a routine stop turned into a life-or-death situation. While assisting with a disabled vehicle, a deputy grew suspicious and called for backup. Deputies Tyler Dalton and Quoc Tran arrived just as the driver and passenger attempted to walk away. When ordered to return, the female complied, but the male refused—his hand hidden in his pocket. In a sudden act of violence, the suspect drew a gun and fired at Deputy Tran. Both deputies returned fire, killing the suspect. Amid the chaos, Deputies Dalton and Tran remained calm, communicated effectively, and upheld their duty with unwavering professionalism. They were awarded the Medal of Valor for their courage in the face of life-threatening danger.
The Distinguished Service Award recognizes employees for heroic acts of bravery. On March 30, Deputies Mark Bennett and Jennifer Mears responded to a mental health crisis involving an armed, hallucinating man and his mother, who was undermining the deputy’s efforts to help her son. Through patience and compassion, they spent 90 minutes gaining his trust, convincing him to disarm, and ensuring a safe resolution. For their calm, skilled de-escalation in a potentially dangerous situation, they received the Distinguished Service Award.
On July 13, Deputy Justin Rank arrived at a raging structure fire with exploding oxygen bottles inside. The residents were able to get out of the home, however, an elderly man collapsed just under an outside window where flames and smoke were billowing out. Deputy Rank pulled the man to safety, helped a panicked elderly woman and her dog get safely away from the home, and assisted a mother and child who had fallen while fleeing. For his quick, selfless actions, he received the Distinguished Service Award.
The Sheriff’s Star is presented at the sole discretion of the Sheriff to an employee or citizen who demonstrates exceptional professional conduct or performance by unselfish or sustained efforts. In early 2024, after Public Affairs lost half its team, Commander James Lucas stepped in while continuing his Court Security duties. He quickly learned the team’s operations and became its strongest advocate, helping bridge communication gaps and preserving high performance through the transition.
For 20 years, Deputy Pete Nielsen has shown unwavering compassion in the Detention Facility’s Special Housing Unit, supporting inmates with serious medical and mental health needs. Known for his kindness and empathy, he brings dignity to a challenging environment. As one inmate shared, “He treated me like a person and really helped calm my anxiety. Just thought you should know how awesome he is.”
In 2024, Records Supervisor Natalie Cozart led the Records Unit’s shift from paper and faxed requests to the NextRequest online portal. She collaborated with Sheriff and County IT, mastering the system to train staff and streamline the process for employees and the public.
Crime Analyst Evan Haskell volunteered as a covert surveillance technician for the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), using his technical skills to enhance surveillance technology and create customized, discreet equipment. He even 3D-printed specialized tools now used by SIU and patrol deputies, and he leveraged the NIBIN system to link suspects in an aggravated robbery to other metro-area crimes.
Legacy Awards
To properly pay respect to our fallen heroes, we present Legacy Awards, each of which recognizes employees, volunteers, or civilians who embody the amazing qualities of those we lost, carrying their legacies forward. We were honored to have some of the family members of the fallen with us at our ceremony to help us present the awards.
In 2024, Deputy Mark Bybee’s dedication to crime prevention and community outreach led to redesigned Neighborhood Watch signs, grant funding for lighting and signage at a large apartment complex, and the launch of the Crime Free Housing program. All while dedicating countless off-hours to outreach and education.
Business Technician Diana Wickam is a vital part of the Sheriff’s Office, excelling in accounts payable while serving as the go-to expert for Workday and county processes. In 2024, she went above and beyond, pursuing additional training in workers’ compensation to support her team while maintaining exceptional service.
Sergeant Rodney Williams is a respected leader known for his integrity, mentorship, and dedication to his team. A proactive problem solver, Sgt. Williams played a key role in a proposal that improved schedules, efficiency, and workload management for courthouse deputies. He takes a genuine interest in his deputies, always looking for ways to better the team.
Deputy Eric Romero’s dedication and sharp instincts have made a major impact in his first year in Patrol. With 38 warrant arrests and multiple stolen vehicle recoveries, he has helped take dangerous suspects off the streets, including a wanted felon who was threatening violence. He is a mentor to deputies going from Detentions to Patrol, a coach for new recruits going through the academy, and a volunteer K9 decoy.
There are a variety of self-improvement programs offered to inmates in the Detention Facility, but Meditation Instructor Don Damond and Yoga Instructor Daniel Taylor’s classes have risen to the top. In 2024, they volunteered to lead 200 classes for over 5,000 inmates. Their dedication has expanded the popular programs, bringing in new instructors for a more consistent class schedule, and making a lasting impact.
On November 6, Golden Police Officer Evan Dunn was tragically killed, and his partner, Officer Bethany Grusing, was seriously injured. In the wake of this loss, JCSO stood by the Golden Police Department and Officer Dunn’s family, providing unwavering support. The JCSO became headquarters for the Colorado Fallen Heroes Foundation operations, and these individuals were integral in the success of their mission.
Protect. Serve. Enforce.
Social Media
Social media is proven to be one of the best, most efficient, and most timely ways to connect with our community. The JCSO uses social media to enhance public engagement by keeping residents, members of the media, and the general public, informed of breaking incidents, crime trends, public safety messages, agency news, employee activities, and job opportunities. Also, to highlight the great work done by the agency each and every day.