Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
2025
Annual Report
Year in Review
Sheriff Reggie Marinelli's third year in office concluded with many accomplishments, highlights, and service enhancements. This annual report will highlight the activities, events, and outcomes of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office (JCSO), as well as the services provided to our valued communities.
Retained Funds Process Established
Throughout the year, the Sheriff's Office staff collaborated with county personnel to determine how to be transparent and fiscally responsible with the taxpayer funds approved by our citizens through Ballot Initiative 1A.
Recruiting Efforts
A strong effort was made in 2025 to hire quality and qualified individuals who meet JCSO's high level of service expectations. We hired 157 talented individuals, which is an increase of 65 employees hired. That's a 71% increase in new hires from 2024.
Wildfire Programs, Emergency Management, and Specialty Response Expansion
The JCSO's goal to enhance our ability to protect life and natural resources was improved by substantially increasing personnel and equipment for fire mitigation programs, emergency management, hazmat, and bomb response.
Organizational Reorganization
A fifth division titled Strategic Services was added to the organization. The purpose was to decrease the span of control and increase service and efficiency.
† Calls for service are shown as each year’s report published them. The 2024 report’s 215,133 is well above 2023’s 152,142 and 2025’s 125,379, and neither report explains why. The 2025 total includes 495 calls from the Town of Morrison.
‡ The 2025 report counts 157 hires, 65 more than in 2024 (+71%), which implies 92 hires in 2024. The 2024 report printed 51 total hires. The reports don’t explain the difference.
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 provides direct public safety services across all unincorporated areas of the county, and now to the Town of Morrison. In 2025, the Division delivered these services through four primary functions: Patrol Operations, Special Operations, Administrative Operations and Animal Control Operations.
Countywide Service
Patrol deputies are responsible for responding to 911 emergency calls, conducting preliminary investigations, enforcing traffic safety, supporting schools, and providing immediate response to critical incidents. Services are delivered through three regional precincts – North, South, Mountain, and to the Town of Morrison – ensuring countywide coverage across diverse urban, suburban, and mountain communities. At the close of 2025, the Patrol Division was staffed with 183 sworn personnel (including 23 trainees) out of 191 authorized positions, and 15 professional staff out of 16 authorized positions. This team supports a broad and demanding service footprint. Despite ongoing staffing challenges, Patrol maintained readiness and response capability throughout the year. Patrol deputies are dispatched to incidents through Jeffcom 911 dispatchers. Often, it isn’t until they arrive to the call that they can determine if there is an actual crime or incident which needs to be documented. If so, deputies will create a report with a case number. In 2025, the JCSO assumed all patrol duties for the Town of Morrison.
School Resource Officers
School Resource Officers (SROs) serve as a bridge between law enforcement, students, educators, and families. In 2025, 14 SROs focused on school safety, relationship-building, and early intervention. The presence of trained deputies in schools enhances preparedness, supports prevention efforts, and fosters trust. During critical incidents, SROs provide immediate coordination with patrol and command staff. In 2025, JCSO received 1,330 Safe2Tell reports and took 708 reports. Bottom Line: SROs enhance school safety through presence, prevention, and partnership.
Animal Control & Drone Unit
Animal Control officers provide essential public safety and quality-of-life services, responding to animal welfare concerns, enforcing county ordinances, and protecting both residents and animals. In 2025, Animal Control handled 10,537 calls for service, responded to 2,376 email service requests, and handled 16,222 phone calls for service. A total of 740 summonses were issued (339 of those for unlicensed dogs) and 2,198 warnings given. The Drone Unit has become a critical force multiplier for Patrol and Special Operations. In 2025, drone deployments increased 134% from 2024 – from 56 in 2024, to 131 in 2025. The Drone Unit supports searches, tactical operations, wildfire response, crime scene documentation, and emergency management. During the Evergreen High School shooting, drone operators provided aerial intelligence, perimeter overwatch, and documentation support. Bottom Line: Drones enhance safety by giving responders better information, faster.
K9, SWAT & Directed Operations
The K9 Unit provides patrol, detection, and tactical support across Jefferson County. In 2025, K9 teams were deployed 404 times – assisting in locating suspects, detecting narcotics and explosives, and supporting SWAT and partner agencies. The Jefferson County Regional SWAT Team provides specialized capabilities for high-risk incidents that exceed routine patrol response. In 2025, the team was activated for 27 critical incidents including barricaded subjects, high-risk warrants, dignitary protection, and active shooter response. There were close to 2,200 hours spent on these operations. The SWAT Team played a critical role during the Evergreen High School active shooter incident. The Directed Operations Unit (DOU) targets high-risk offenders, organized criminal activity, and emerging crime trends. In 2025, the unit focused heavily on motor vehicle theft and associated violent crime, conducting proactive operations that led to 68 felony arrests, 28 stolen vehicle recoveries, and the disruption of repeat offenders.
Traffic & Bicycle Units
The Traffic Unit plays a vital role in reducing serious crashes and improving roadway safety throughout Jefferson County. In 2025, traffic deputies focused enforcement efforts on high-crash locations, school zones, and community-identified problem areas. During the Click it or Ticket enforcement periods, a total of 142 stops were conducted, resulting in 119 citations. Speed saturation operations on Hwy 93 and Hwy 285 resulted in 1,063 tickets issued. There were a total of 199 DUI arrests in 2025. The Bicycle Unit supports patrol operations with proactive patrol, focused enforcement, and response to critical incidents. In 2025, they had over 200 hours of deployment time. The certified roster grew to 15 deputies, two reserves, and two sergeants. Bottom Line: Public safety through visibility and prevention.
Commitment Under Pressure
The year 2025 tested the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Division in ways that few years ever do. The Division was called upon to respond to one of the most critical and emotionally challenging incidents a community can face – an active shooter at Evergreen High School. Deputies moved toward danger without hesitation, coordinated seamlessly with SWAT, Drone, K9, Fire, EMS, and partner agencies. They operated under intense pressure with a singular focus: saving lives and protecting the community.
The Patrol Division Bottom Line
Such incidents carry lasting impacts – not only operationally, but emotionally. The Sheriff’s Office recognizes the toll these events take on deputies, supervisors, and support staff. In 2025, the Division placed renewed emphasis on wellness, peer support, and leadership presence following critical incidents. The accomplishments and challenges of 2025 underscore the dynamic nature of modern policing; Jefferson County is not immune or isolated from those impacts. As demands, risks, and community expectations evolve, the Patrol Division remains committed to its mission to Protect, Serve, and Enforce, with an unwavering commitment to the safety of our community.
In the News – Evergreen
On September 10, Evergreen High School was the site of a tragic school shooting that shook the school and the Jefferson County community. Deputies responded immediately to reports of an active shooter, quickly locating and confronting the suspect, who then took his own life. Our hearts are heavy for the two students who were critically wounded and for the lasting trauma this community will carry. At the same time, we are deeply grateful for the courage and resilience shown by Evergreen High School students, staff, and Evergreen community members.
Amazing Survival Stories
The first student shot by the gunman was a 14-year-old freshman. The student was shot at close range but was still able to escape from the building, warn others, and get medical help. He suffered traumatic gunshot injuries and had to undergo multiple surgeries. His family chose to keep his identity confidential. The second student, 18-year-old Matthew Silverstone, was shot once in the chest and once in the head. Miraculously, Matthew survived and has since begun to recover far beyond anyone’s expectations.
Evergreen Strong
The JCSO provided extensive information to the community while the investigation was still underway. In October, JCSO released detailed updates to address ongoing questions, correct misinformation, and explain response actions, timelines, and investigative limitations – balancing transparency with the need to protect the integrity of the case. These efforts were intended to help the community better understand the event, reduce speculation, and begin the process of healing, while reaffirming JCSO’s commitment to accountability, clarity, and public trust.
Evergreen Community Shows Heartfelt Thanks to First Responders
In October, the Evergreen community came together for “Thank the Helpers,” honoring the first responders who answered the call on September 10. Evergreen High School students presented a plaque and more than 250 handwritten thank-you cards from students, staff, and neighbors. Evergreen Fire/Rescue – along with local bus drivers, the library, and the rec center – were also recognized. We’re deeply moved by this support. It’s a powerful reminder that healing begins when a community stands together. Thank you, Evergreen. We’re proud to serve you – always.
Notable Cases
Serial Burglar Identified and Arrested
In January, Favian Gonzalez-Garcia was arrested on multiple counts of second-degree burglary, theft, and criminal mischief after allegedly targeting Latino families in metro-area mobile home parks. Linked to nearly 30 burglaries in both Jefferson and Adams counties, he is suspected of stealing tens of thousands of dollars in cash, coins, and jewelry. The arrest was made possible through the collaborative efforts of a JCSO investigator, regional partners, and community members who provided critical tips and camera footage. Gonzalez-Garcia received an 18-year sentence for his crimes.
Search Warrant Leads to Multiple Arrests and Contraband Seizures
In April, JCSO and the Regional Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAVEN) served a search warrant at a home in the 8000 block of West Star Avenue. The warrant was to search for firearms, drugs, and stolen property – however, the operation also proved successful in apprehending seven people who had active warrants for their arrest unrelated to the search. There were 12 people inside the home at the time and seven were taken into custody. Neighbors expressed their gratitude for the operation which helped improve safety in their neighborhood. RAVEN is a joint task force comprised of 15 local, state, and federal agencies that focus on violent and gun-related crimes throughout the state.
K9 Assisted Drug Bust
In April, Jeffco deputies stopped a speeding black Ford Explorer near I-70 and Harlan Street. A narcotics investigation followed, with K9 Anton sniffing out drugs at the vehicle’s rear hatch. Deputies discovered and seized 4.9 kilograms of fentanyl, equivalent to approximately 50,000 M30 pills, with a street value of $1 million. The suspect was taken into custody and turned over to federal authorities.
Suspect Arrested After Armed Assault at Rock Rest Lodge
In May, a quick-thinking waitress and staff at Rock Rest Lodge displayed courage and teamwork when they stopped an armed suspect who assaulted a staff member. The suspect entered the bar, located at 16005 Mt. Vernon Rd., ordered food, and asked a waitress to check the women’s restroom for an item that was supposedly left behind by his girlfriend. Once inside, he followed her, brandished a handgun, and began choking her. The waitress fought back, disarmed him, and alerted others. Staff detained the suspect until deputies arrived. The suspect, Brandon Montano, was arrested on charges of second-degree kidnapping, assault by strangulation, menacing, false imprisonment, and prohibited use of a weapon.
Multi-Agency, Large Scale Emergency Training at Jeffco Fairgrounds
In August, a large-scale active shooter training exercise at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds brought together law enforcement, fire, EMS, hospitals, medical choppers, emergency management, and dispatch partners to test their coordinated response in a realistic scenario with 60 volunteer “victims”. It challenged the group’s interoperability, communication, and coordinated medical response under complex incident conditions. Teams worked together to stop the threat, treat the injured, and evaluate performance to improve future response. The exercise strengthened interagency coordination and preparedness. Just one month later, many of the same first responders were called to the Evergreen High School shooting.
Stabbing at State Park is False
In August, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office issued a warrant for the arrest of a 26-year-old seasonal Colorado Parks & Wildlife park ranger, after determining his report of being attacked and stabbed at Staunton State Park was false. The August 19th incident prompted a massive emergency response, including multiple law enforcement agencies, a public safety alert to nearby residents, and lockdowns at several schools. As inconsistencies in his story and evidence surfaced, investigators concluded the report was fabricated and that he stabbed himself. Callum Heskett was arrested and charged with multiple felony and misdemeanor offenses, including attempting to influence a public servant, tampering with evidence, and false reporting.
Arrest Following Road Rage Shooting on Hwy 285
In November, deputies responded to the area of Hwy 285 and Settlers Drive following reports of a road rage shooting. The incident resulted in a female passenger in the victim vehicle sustaining a gunshot wound to the head. The victim was transported to the hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery. She sustained critical injuries as a result of the incident. Witnesses provided deputies with a description of the suspect vehicle, which led to the arrest of 56-year-old Matthew Impellitteri. He was charged with two counts of criminal attempt first degree murder after deliberation and two counts of criminal attempt first degree murder – extreme indifference.
Criminal Investigations Division
The Criminal Investigations Division is responsible for the comprehensive follow-up investigation of reported felony offenses and selected misdemeanor crimes. This includes proactive and covert investigative efforts addressing illicit activity, narcotics distribution, and organized criminal enterprises. The Division’s mission is to conduct thorough, objective investigations that gather and preserve evidence related to the guilt or innocence of involved parties, recover stolen property, and accurately document investigative actions in official reports. The authorized staff consists of 56 sworn investigators and 33 professional staff members.
Division Structure
The division is broken down into five sections: The Crimes Against Persons Section consists of the Major Crimes Unit, including the Regional Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAVEN) Task Force officer, the Crime Intelligence Unit, the Crime Scene Unit, and the Victim Services Unit. The Property Crimes Section includes the Property Crimes Unit, the Colorado Metropolitan Auto Theft Task Force (CMATT), the Financial Crimes Unit, and the Evidence Unit. The Special Investigations Section is comprised of the Intelligence Unit, Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force (RMSSTF), Fugitive Unit, Child Sex Offender Internet Investigation Unit (CHEEZO), Crimes Against Children Unit, West Metro Drug Task Force, and the Rocky Mountain Regional Computer Forensic Laboratory. The Jefferson County Regional Crime Laboratory (JCRCL) is a regional forensic laboratory providing specialized services to law enforcement agencies throughout Jefferson County. The laboratory offers expertise in drug chemistry, latent print examination, forensic biology, firearms examination, and other forensic disciplines.
Significant Investigations
Justice Served: In April, following weeks of trial, a jury returned guilty verdicts on all charges related to the 2023 homicide of Alexa Bartell. The defendant, Joseph Koening, was sentenced to life in prison plus 60 years. The two other suspects were sentenced in May and will be serving decades in prison. Mountain Bike Theft Ring Busted: Beginning in April, investigators uncovered a series of vehicle trespasses and residential burglaries targeting high-end mountain bikes across Jefferson County and neighboring jurisdictions. Through video evidence, suspect vehicle identification, and coordinated intelligence-sharing across the metro area, the group was linked to dozens of cases, including 28 in Jefferson County, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in stolen property. The suspects were ultimately indicted by a grand jury and arrested during a coordinated metro-wide operation.
Human Trafficking & International Cases
Successful Human Trafficking Operation: In September, the CIU assisted with a major human trafficking effort called “Operation Rodeo Rescue”. This operation required cooperation between Investigations, Patrol, and multiple task forces. The unit conducted intensive target research prior to the operation as well as providing investigators with live intel and threat assessments. The Crime Intelligence Unit also successfully deployed five covert cameras around the target property and assisted with live monitoring and evidence collection. The operation resulted in the identification of multiple human trafficking suspects, firearm seizures, and victim interdiction. Cortez D’Angelo Dennis, 31, was identified and charged with human trafficking for sexual servitude and pimping. Child Sex Offender Tracked to New Zealand: Following an Internet Crimes Against Children tip, an investigator identified a local suspect communicating with an overseas offender actively producing child sexual abuse material involving his own child. Through coordinated search warrants and international collaboration with the Online Child Exploitation Across New Zealand (OCEANZ) Unit, authorities executed a search warrant, rescued the child victim, and arrested the offender. This case highlights the global impact of the unit’s investigative efforts. Working Internationally to Find a Runaway: Investigators worked an extended runaway case involving a juvenile believed to have crossed into Mexico. Through networking at a recent Crimes Against Children conference, an investigator established key international contacts, leading to a National AMBER Alert in Mexico. The juvenile was located within six days.
Major Drug Bust
The West Metro Drug Task Force conducted a long-term narcotics investigation that started in October of 2023 and concluded in May of 2025 after a six month wiretap investigation. The case included hundreds of hours of surveillance, over one hundred search warrants, 14 suspects arrested on a total of 99 charges, 13 additional arrests for warrants or other criminal charges, 27 firearms seized and $225,000 in cash seized. During the course of the investigation, the following drugs were seized: 33,000 grams methamphetamine (~73 lbs.) 30,000 grams blue M30 fentanyl pills (~280,000 pills) 10,479 grams fentanyl powder (~23 lbs.) 5,447 grams cocaine (~12 lbs.) 2,859 grams alprazolam (Xanax) 257 grams amphetamines 211 grams heroin 187 grams MDMA 53 grams ketamine
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. In 2025, the Sheriff’s Office employed 394 full-time employees in the Detention Division. The division is comprised of 283 authorized sworn staff and 111 authorized professional staff.
Facility Overview
The mission of the Detention Division is to remain responsive to community needs, maintain a safe and secure facility, and provide varied services and programs for inmate stability and enrichment. In 2025, the average daily population was 821, 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.
SORT, Transportation & Inmate Services
The Special Operations Response Team has a total of 11 members, two sergeants, and one commander. They completed 39 total missions in 2025. SORT held their 7th annual Charity Ruck March on December 13. Following the tragic school shooting at Evergreen High School on September 10, the SORT team committed to supporting the Evergreen community. This year, the team collected a record 1,936 pounds of canned food, clothing and hygiene items that were rucked from the high school to Evergreen Christian Outreach (EChO). The Transportation Unit saw a 10% decrease in transports from 2024 and a 2% decrease in total miles driven: 128,119. The Inmate Services Unit initiated 11,467 bonds and prepared 15,250 inmates for release or transfer.
- High risk transports/court escorts – 13
- Cell extractions – 1
- High profile security – 5
- Special assignments – 13
- Assisting other law enforcement agencies – 7
Anti-Trafficking, Chaplaincy & Education
The Anti-Trafficking Unit protects our community by proactively identifying, investigating, and disrupting human trafficking operations using a victim-centered, trauma-informed approach. Sheriff Marinelli authorized the unit’s creation in May 2025. After a structured selection process, 12 deputies were appointed in June. In its first few months, the unit conducted 37 interviews of potential victims and opened 21 investigations. The Chaplaincy Unit supports the spiritual needs of inmates of all faiths. In 2025, the unit offered 908 religious programs, a 22% increase from 2024, with 8,559 inmate participants. Volunteer chaplains contributed 1,933 hours of service. This was the first full year using the new Edovo Platform. Over the course of 2025, there were a total of 2,367 users (+49%), with 14,511 courses completed (+145%), and 60,094 total learning hours (+114%) spent actively learning, exploring, and reviewing informational content.
Strategic Services Division
In 2025, the Strategic Services Division was created to divide the large number of responsibilities that previously overwhelmed the Support Services Division. The division of these responsibilities allowed the Strategic Services Division and Support Services Division to focus specifically on their respective mission and roles. The Strategic Services Division delivers reliable and efficient support by managing standards, finance, business practices, and proactive maintenance of agency policies and accreditation standards. The division provides strategic oversight of human resources, asset management, research, and planning to enhance organizational effectiveness.
Asset Management & Fleet
Includes Fleet, Supply, and Building Maintenance. Fleet maintains patrol and duty vehicles, as well as heavy equipment such as a command bus, Sno-Cat, and specialized vehicles for the Bomb Squad, SWAT, Wildland Fire Program and Animal Control. Supply provides uniforms, manages 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. In 2025, the Building Maintenance Unit conducted a refurbishment of jail Module 6C, where the jail sliders were upgraded. The refurbishment included cleaning, painting and repair to floors and showers, and an upgrade to LED lighting. The unit experienced challenges associated with Public Service Power Shutoffs by Xcel Energy to mitigate the threat of fire, based on downed powerlines caused by wind.
Business Office & Standards
The Business Office is a central resource for core administrative and financial operations, and to deliver professional customer service for human resources and employee payroll needs. The unit onboards newly hired personnel and facilitates the separation of personnel from the agency. Over a five-year period, overall attrition is on the decline. The Planning and Standards Section maintains all master policies and procedures, divisional operations manuals, detention post orders, and is responsible for issuing all revisions to each manual. In 2025, the unit significantly strengthened the compliance posture and governance framework through targeted initiatives. The ongoing accreditation processes through CALEA and ACA reflect the agency’s compliance with industry standards.
Budget & Finance
Develops and maintains the annual budget, provides human resources needs, and manages payroll processes, grant funding, billing and financial records.
Budget Breakdown
Total expenditures by division — $150,045,101
Detentions receives the largest share at 38.6%, followed by Support Services at 19.6%, Patrol at 19%, Strategic Services at 11.2%, Criminal Investigations at 9.8%, and Executive at 1.8%.
Chart description (accessibility)
Detentions receives the largest share at 38.6%, followed by Support Services at 19.6%, Patrol at 19%, Strategic Services at 11.2%, Criminal Investigations at 9.8%, and Executive at 1.8%.
Expenditures by Division, 2024 to 2025
Detentions was unchanged at $57.9M. Support Services fell 2%, from $30.0M in 2024 to $29.4M in 2025. Patrol rose 7%, from $26.7M in 2024 to $28.5M in 2025. Strategic Services: $16.9M in 2025, with no 2024 figure. Criminal Investigations rose 10%, from $13.4M in 2024 to $14.7M in 2025. Executive fell 16%, from $3.2M in 2024 to $2.7M in 2025. Support + Strategic Services rose 54%, from $30.0M in 2024 to $46.3M in 2025.
Chart description (accessibility)
Detentions was unchanged at $57.9M. Support Services fell 2%, from $30.0M in 2024 to $29.4M in 2025. Patrol rose 7%, from $26.7M in 2024 to $28.5M in 2025. Strategic Services: $16.9M in 2025, with no 2024 figure. Criminal Investigations rose 10%, from $13.4M in 2024 to $14.7M in 2025. Executive fell 16%, from $3.2M in 2024 to $2.7M in 2025. Support + Strategic Services rose 54%, from $30.0M in 2024 to $46.3M in 2025.
Strategic Services was split out of Support Services in 2025, so it has no 2024 figure. The Support + Strategic Services row adds the two together to compare with 2024’s Support Services. Other units moved too: the Bomb Squad from Patrol to Support Services, Wellness from Executive Administration to Support Services, and accreditation, research and inspections from Executive Administration to Strategic Services. So a division’s two years don’t cover exactly the same units. Figures are rounded to $0.1M, as the 2025 report prints them.
Support Services Division
The Support Services Division of the JCSO provides the foundational systems, services, and infrastructure that enable effective law enforcement and public safety operations throughout Jefferson County. In 2025, the division continued to expand its scope and capabilities while maintaining a strong focus on operational reliability, professional standards, employee well-being, and fiscal responsibility.
Emergency Management & Wildfire Programs
In 2025, the Support Services Division significantly expanded emergency management and wildfire programs. With approval from the Board of County Commissioners, the Sheriff’s Office launched a comprehensive Wildland Fire Management Program focused on response, mitigation, and community resilience. The initiative included a $2.3 million investment in vehicles and equipment and $4.5 million to add 37 full-time positions dedicated to wildfire efforts. The program expanded beyond response to include prevention and risk reduction, such as a standardized countywide home assessment process, public education, and grant opportunities for residents and partner agencies. It also secured $200,000 in FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance funding and a $9.7 million Community Wildfire Defense Grant. Although Jefferson County did not experience a major wildfire in 2025, personnel supported partner agencies while building long-term program infrastructure; hiring staff, equipping vehicles, improving facilities, and strengthening local and regional partnerships.
Training & Employee Wellness
The Training Unit continued to support agency staffing and readiness needs. In 2025, 36 recruits graduated from the Combined Regional Academy, and 25 deputies completed detention-specific training through the Department Certified Academy. Training programs were enhanced to emphasize legal knowledge, operational proficiency, accountability, and professionalism. Firearms training hours increased by 15% compared to the prior year. The Wellness Center continued to operate as a comprehensive program addressing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of Sheriff’s Office personnel. In 2025, more than 1,500 neurofeedback therapy sessions were delivered through grant-funded programming. The addition of an embedded, on-site clinical psychologist expanded access to confidential counseling, critical incident support, and proactive mental health engagement.
Records & Technical Services
In 2025, the Records Unit navigated significant legislative changes and operational demands while maintaining strong compliance and service delivery. The unit processed 7,805 public records requests in the first full year of the NextRequest platform. CBI, CJIS, and FBI N-Dex audits were completed successfully, with mitigation items addressed and full compliance achieved. Operationally, total warrant activity decreased 5%, while extradition transport costs dropped 41% through improved collaboration. In 2025, the Technical Services Unit advanced transparency, efficiency, and security through major technology upgrades. Achievements included full deployment of body-worn cameras and digital evidence systems, network infrastructure enhancements, initiation of core Records and Jail Management System replacements, and participation in regional cybersecurity exercises.
Recruiting & Bomb Squad
The Recruiting Unit processed 5,146 applications in 2025, a 63% increase from the previous year, and conducted more than 500 pre-employment polygraph examinations. The unit hired 157 individuals, including 127 external and 30 internal candidates, with notable growth in professional staff to support the newly approved Wildland Fire Program. In 2025, the Bomb Squad was transferred from the Patrol Division to the Support Services Division. The Bomb Squad is the only explosive ordinance 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.
Community, Charity & Employee Events
In 2025, citizens dropped off more than 613 pounds of prescription meds during these events.
The JCSO and West Metro FOP Lodge 18 hosted their annual Day of Remembrance memorial ceremony in the Memorial Garden in Golden.
The JCSO contingent includes a hayrack, motorcycles, and Mounted Patrol.
Sworn deputies and command staff attend about two dozen neighborhood and community events throughout unincorporated Jeffco.
In 2025, 108 Jeffco children benefited from the Christmas Crusade.
Deputies, along with students from Evergreen High School, marched nearly three miles, delivering 1,936 pounds of goods to Evergreen Christian Outreach.
Each April, victim advocates, investigators, and others from the JCSO join the District Attorney’s Office for the Courage Walk at the Jeffco Courthouse to support and inspire survivors of crime and their families.
Employees and their kids observe a K9 demonstration, explore emergency equipment including Bomb Squad and SWAT vehicles, process candy as evidence, and get fingerprinted.
In 2025, 21 Jeffco youth participated in the free, week-long summer academy.
The JCSO participated in National Coffee with a Cop Day at various locations throughout Jeffco.
In 2025, 19 Jeffco residents participated in the interactive, 10-week academy.
The JCSO site collected $9,600 and recycled over 20,000 lbs. of materials.
Honors
Sworn and professional staff are recognized each year for their public safety successes, exemplary performance, and professional achievements.
The Medal of Valor is the highest award given for an outstanding act of heroism. Deputy Thomas Hammetter was the first to confront the gunman during the Evergreen High School shooting. He held the suspect at gunpoint to stop the threat. When the suspect took his own life, Deputy Hammetter ran to the shooting victim and performed CPR until medical arrived. Once the victim was in the ambulance, he then headed back to the school to help clear the building and get kids out safely. For his selfless actions under extreme danger, he was awarded the Medal of Valor and Lifesaving Awards.
On September 10, Deputy Denise DeNuzzi was one of the first to confront the gunman at Evergreen High School. After the 16-year-old gunman shot himself, she began life-saving measures so that Deputy Hammetter could help the shooting victim nearby. Once more backup arrived, she then helped with CPR on the victim until he could be transported to the hospital. Her decisive action in a dangerous situation earned her the Distinguished Service and Lifesaving Awards.
Brought exceptional vision and leadership to launch Jefferson County’s Fire Mitigation Program, creating a strategic, fiscally responsible plan to reduce wildfire risk countywide. His leadership helped secure unanimous approval of more than $7 million in funding to establish 37 full-time positions.
Launched the Human Trafficking Intelligence Unit, the first of its kind in the Detentions Division, partnering with Investigations to close a critical gap. By building policy, screening tools, procedures, and training from the ground up, they strengthened the JCSO’s ability to identify human trafficking victims within the detention facility.
Led the way in advancing mental health wellness and post-traumatic growth through the Struggle Well program, positioning the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office as a regional leader. Their work helped create a culture where mental wellness is a shared priority.
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, and we presented each with a posthumous Purple Heart.
An exceptional School Resource Officer whose presence at Drake Middle School built trust and connection among students and staff. Through strong relationships and a steady commitment to student well-being, she created a safe, supportive environment where students feel seen, heard, and valued.
Lead with integrity and accountability, setting a strong example for those he supervises. He successfully guided the agency’s transition to the Axon Body-Worn Camera program, delivering a seamless, on-time and on-budget rollout that strengthens transparency, officer safety, and community trust.
Provided steady, compassionate leadership during the Evergreen shooting, guiding crisis support efforts and launching a virtual resiliency center for those impacted. Under her leadership in 2025, the Victim Services Unit supported thousands of individuals across more than 1,700 incidents.
Demonstrated exceptional dedication through his leadership and volunteer service with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Explorer program. In 2025, he gave more than 400 hours mentoring young participants.
Demonstrated exceptional performance well beyond her rookie year in Patrol. She played a key role in the Drone Unit during high-risk and critical incidents, balancing operational impact with instructional duties and nearly 200 hours of volunteer overtime.
Provided unwavering support to the Evergreen High School shooting victims and their families, standing beside them from the earliest moments of crisis through long-term recovery.
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.