Hubbry Logo
Colorado State PatrolColorado State PatrolMain
Open search
Colorado State Patrol
Community hub
Colorado State Patrol
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Colorado State Patrol
Colorado State Patrol
Colorado State Patrol
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Colorado State Patrol
Badge of Colorado State Patrol
Badge of Colorado State Patrol
AbbreviationCSP
MottoBE COURTEOUS BUT FIRM
Agency overview
FormedSeptember 23, 1935; 90 years ago (1935-09-23)
Preceding agency
  • Colorado State Highway Courtesy Patrol
Employees1,138 (as of 2020)[1]
Annual budget$178,218,000
Jurisdictional structure
Operations jurisdictionColorado, USA
Colorado State Patrol Districts
Size104,185 square miles (269,840 km2)
Population5,758,736 (2019 est.)[2]
General nature
Operational structure
HeadquartersLakewood, Colorado
Sworn members701 (actual, as of 2022) [3]
Unsworn membersApprox. 380
Agency executive
  • Colonel Matthew C. Packard, Chief
Parent agencyColorado Department of Public Safety
Facilities
Districts19 Troop Offices
Website
web.archive.org/web/20141203233229/https://www.colorado.gov/csp

The Colorado State Patrol (CSP; originally known as the Colorado State Highway Courtesy Patrol), based in Lakewood, Colorado, is a division of the Colorado Department of Public Safety, and is one of the official state police agencies of Colorado, along with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Colorado Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ), Colorado Division of Fire Prevention & Control (DFPC), and Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM). Additionally, the Executive Director's Office supports operations of the five divisions and houses the Colorado School Safety Resource Center (CSSRC) and Colorado Integrated Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS). The CSP primarily enforces traffic laws on interstates and state highways and guards the state capitol and the Governor of Colorado.

History

[edit]

Senate Bill No. 6 in 1935 created the Colorado State Highway Courtesy Patrol. With just thirty five men selected from 6000 applicants, the new Patrolmen arrived in Golden for training. The Patrol Board was made up of E.E. Wheeler, the Chairman of the State PUC, Charles Vail, Chief Engineer of Highways and James H. Carr, the Secretary of State. In 1935, the Colorado State Courtesy Patrol was added as the Division of Patrol, to the Division of Highways. The Patrols title was changed in 1945 to Colorado State Highway Patrol. The Patrol Act also created a Port of Entry or Welcome for inspection of trucks of Interstate Commerce. In 1936, 30 POE Officers were hired to collect road taxes which collected sum $500, 000. In 1953, a reorganization created the Department of Highways. In 1968, another name change to Highway Department happened with the subdivisions of Highway, Planning and Patrol, which the CSP fell under. In 1983, the Department of Public Safety was created and the CSP was transferred under the Director of Public Safety.

The patrol was met with opposition from the public when it was formed, as well as from other law enforcement agencies, who thought the patrol would endanger their jurisdiction. Therefore, Colorado legislature carefully outlined the duties of the agency in the Patrol Act, which states that "it shall be their duty to promote safety, protect human life and preserve the highways of Colorado by the intelligent, courteous, and strict enforcement of the laws and regulation of this state relating to highways."[4] This became the motto of the Colorado State Patrol.

The Colorado State Patrol headquarters is located in a nondescript building in Lakewood, Colorado.

The notorious Ludlow Massacre near Trinidad in 1914 sullied any attempts in forming a state police. While a police organization was not involved, Colorado did not want a police force to act upon the orders of the governor, especially in a labor strike. Today, Colorado State Patrol officers are not allowed to act as guards in strikes or labor disputes.[5]

The Colorado Rangers were founded in 1861. These officers were state officers and were known to augment local police and sheriffs. Governor William E. Sweet signed an executive order on January 29, 1923, cutting off funding and effectively disbanding the Rangers. Fulfilling a campaign promise, on April 1, 1927 Governor Billy Adams repealed the Department of Safety Act, thus officially disbanding the Colorado Rangers, and with it, all statewide law enforcement in Colorado. Colorado Rangers were subsequently reorganized as a statewide law enforcement shared reserve.

In 1915, Colorado voted to become a “dry” state to begin January 1, 1916. Stories have Adolph Coors dumping thousands of gallons of beer into Clear Creek on the first day of 1916. National Prohibition began on January 20, 1920 as the Volstead Act/18th Amendment. Prohibition lasted in Colorado until December 5, 1933 with the repeal of Prohibition or the 21st Amendment.

With state prohibition, Colorado created Prohibition Agents to enforce state liquor laws in 1915. Most agents were local police and sheriffs deputies. In 1923, the Colorado Law Enforcement Department was created as an extension of the Prohibition Department and to assist police and sheriffs in case of emergencies. Due to questions about the Governor using Colorado officers in labor disputes, the department was downsized to a Chief (Lewis Scherf) and five agents in 1929. Members of the department were mostly Colorado Peace Officers or citizens serving in an honorary capacity. In 1933, the Law Enforcement Department was totally abolished.

The State Department of Safety was created to protect/augment military war industries in Colorado in 1917. The department was to be abolished after World War I and was folded into the Colorado Rangers.

The Motor Vehicle Department, Auto Theft and Colorado Motor Police all have their beginnings in the 1920s. All to be disbanded in 1935, with the creation of the Colorado State Highway Courtesy Patrol.

In 1935, the Colorado State Courtesy Patrol was added as the Division of Patrol, while the highway maintenance was re named Division of Highways.

In 1953, a reorganization created the Department of Highways. In 1968, another name change to Highway Department happened with the subdivisions of Highway, Planning and Patrol.

In 1983, the Department of Public Safety was created and the CSP was transferred under the Director of Public Safety.

Weapons and tools

[edit]

Until the switch to auto-loading semi-automatic pistols, the CSP carried blue steel, 4-inch barreled Colt Python revolvers. CSP then went to the Smith & Wesson Model 4006 .40 S&W in a Melonite (black) finish with the agency's seal engraved in the slide. CSP troopers now carry the Shadow Systems XR920 9 mm.[6]

All CSP troopers are issued an ASP baton and OC, with Tasers started being used in 2011.[7]

Starting in 2019, all CSP troopers were issued a Sionic Patrol Rifle chambered in .223.

In 2020, the CSP transitioned to the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 .40.

In 2023, the CSP switched from Smith & Wesson to the Shadow Systems XR920, MR920 and CR920 model pistols.

Vehicles and aircraft

[edit]
Colorado State Patrol Dodge Chargers near Sterling, CO

In 2009, after many years of using Ford Crown Victoria patrol cars, the CSP began to introduce Dodge Chargers into its fleet.[8] The CSP has also used Chevrolet Tahoes, Ford Police Interceptors (both sedan and utility models) and Chevrolet Caprices. In 2021, CSP announced they would be transitioning to the Dodge Durango to replace their Chargers over a five year period.[9]

The Hazardous Materials and Motor Carrier Safety sections use Ford F-150 trucks.[10]

The CSP operates five fixed wing aircraft.[11][12]

The Colorado State Patrol Motor Operations unit used Harley-Davidson motorcycles up to 2010. From 2010 to 2012 the Kawasaki Concours was phased in. In 2015, CSP switched to the BMW R1200RTP Police motorcycle. Motor Officers are assigned to individual field troops and ride year round.

Activities

[edit]

Specific duties include:

  • Enforcing all traffic the laws of the state of Colorado on approximately 8,483 miles (13,652 km) of state highways and more than 57,000 miles (92,000 km) of county roads.
  • Directing, controlling and regulating motor vehicle traffic on public roadways.
  • Inspecting vehicles for safety-related equipment violations.
  • Inspecting vehicles carrying livestock for brand inspection certificates.
  • Providing community education and administer safety programs to the public.
  • Regulating road closures for special events, inclement weather, or when necessary to prevent further injury or damage following an emergency.
  • Promulgating and enforcing rules and regulations for commercial motor vehicles.
  • Operating a statewide law enforcement telecommunications system.
  • Performing criminal interdiction on Colorado highways, focusing on the transport of illegal drugs.
  • Assisting in state homeland security efforts.
  • Providing emergency assistance in the event of major disasters, civil protests, or when requested by local law enforcement.

Rank structure

[edit]

Commissioned officers

[edit]
Rank Insignia Description
Colonel
Chief of the Patrol
Lieutenant Colonel
Region Commander
Major
District/Branch Commander
Captain
Troop/Section Commander

Non-commissioned officers

[edit]
Rank Insignia
Sergeant Major
Master Sergeant
Sergeant
Corporal
Master Trooper and
Technician
Trooper

Special programs

[edit]
Colorado State Patrol Chevrolet Tahoe near Sterling, CO
Colorado State Patrol Chevrolet Tahoe near Sterling, CO
Interior of Colorado State Patrol Dodge Charger patrol vehicle

Alive at 25

[edit]

A community program designed to impact the future of traffic safety, Alive at 25 focuses educational effort to youths between the ages of 14 and 25. Its emphasis is to identify and eliminate at-risk driving behavior.[13]

Specialty units

[edit]

CSP specialty units include:[14]

  • Vehicular Crimes Unit
  • Aircraft Section
  • Canine Team (narcotic and explosive detection)
  • Executive Security Branch
  • Hazardous Materials Section
  • Homeland Security Section
  • Smuggling and Trafficking Interdiction Section
  • Investigative Services Section
  • Motor Carrier Safety Section
  • Motorcycle Unit
  • Evidence Section
  • Special Operations and Response (SOAR)

Fallen troopers

[edit]

Since its establishment in 1935, 30 troopers have died while on duty or while employed with the Colorado State Patrol.

Line of Duty Deaths

[edit]
  • Struck by Vehicle/Vehicular Assault: 10
  • Automobile Crash: 8
  • Gunfire: 7
  • Vehicle Pursuit: 1
  • Motorcycle Crash: 1
  • Drowning: 1
  • Exposure to Toxins: 1
  • Fall: 1[15]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Colorado State Patrol

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) is Colorado's primary statewide , tasked with enforcing laws, promoting , and protecting life and property across the state's roadways and beyond. Established in through legislation creating the Colorado State Highway Courtesy Patrol, the agency initially focused on accident investigation, motorist assistance, and basic enforcement to address rising vehicle usage and concerns. Over time, its mandate expanded under the to include commercial motor vehicle oversight, hazardous materials regulation, criminal interdiction, aviation support, executive protection, and specialized teams for and K-9 operations. Operating from headquarters in Lakewood with personnel distributed across multiple districts, the CSP maintains a force of approximately 725 sworn troopers equipped with body-worn cameras since 2023, emphasizing professional standards including accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies since 2015.

History

Formation and Early Operations (1935–1950)

The Colorado State Highway Courtesy Patrol was established in 1935 as a division of the State Highway Department, following the enactment of Senate Bill 483 during the 1933 legislative session, which authorized the creation of a dedicated safety force. Training for the initial cadre commenced on September 23, 1935, at Camp George West under the leadership of the first chief, Joseph J. Marsh, with 44 officers selected from approximately 7,500 applicants through a competitive process. This six-week program emphasized basic patrol techniques and highway courtesy protocols, marking the agency's formal operational launch amid the Great Depression's lingering economic constraints. The Patrol's foundational mandate centered on promoting highway , investigating accidents, enforcing and traffic laws, administering at crash scenes, and rendering assistance to stranded motorists, all aimed at preserving state highways and safeguarding human life through courteous public interaction. Officers initially operated without firearms, reflecting the "courtesy" ethos and opposition from figures like Governor Johnson, who famously remarked there was "no courtesy in a ," which limited their authority to primarily warnings and non-confrontational interventions. This approach sought to foster voluntary compliance with rules on licensing, taxation, and amid widespread public non-adherence, while addressing the era's rudimentary road infrastructure and increasing automobile usage. Early operations faced significant hurdles, including scarce resources that constrained vehicle availability and geographic coverage as Colorado's road networks expanded under federal aid programs like the New Deal's initiatives. Post-Depression recovery brought surging traffic volumes, exacerbating accident rates and necessitating a gradual evolution from informal warnings to formal court citations for persistent violations, though enforcement remained secondary to service-oriented duties. By the late 1940s, these pressures highlighted the need for enhanced capabilities, culminating in 1950 with the adoption of faster vehicles equipped for pursuing speeders and emerging hot-rod enthusiasts, signaling a pivot toward more assertive traffic control without abandoning core safety principles.

Expansion and Role Evolution (1950s–2000)

Following , the Colorado State Patrol expanded significantly to address surging highway traffic and fatalities, with legislation in the increasing its authorized strength by 100 officers and equipping vehicles with three-way radios, kits, and enhanced safety gear. In June 1952, Governor Dan Thornton specifically called for adding 50 to 60 more troopers to curb the state's rising road death rate, reflecting a mandate shift toward proactive enforcement amid rapid postwar automobile adoption. By 1954, the agency introduced radar-based speed enforcement using five Electromatic Speed Meter units, marking an early embrace of technological advancements for traffic control. The 1960s further broadened the Patrol's capabilities, as 1967 legislation removed the prior 275-officer cap and extended police powers to state properties, enabling more versatile operations beyond pure highway courtesy. Training evolved with programs like the National Safety Council's driver improvement course for 20 officers in 1966 and tactical firearms instruction for five troopers at the in 1973, alongside the (Selected Preventive Enforcement Action-Response) initiative to target high-risk crash areas. Specialization emerged, incorporating enforcement to regulate growing truck traffic on expanding interstates like I-70 and I-25, while responses to natural disasters—such as the 1976 Big Thompson Canyon flood—demonstrated a pivot toward emergency assistance and diversified criminal interdiction. By the 1980s, amid Colorado's 1970s energy boom that spiked heavy-haul traffic from development, the integrated hazardous materials response, training 30 specialists in 1984 to handle chemical transport risks on highways. Reorganization under the new in 1983 facilitated interstate coordination and resource sharing, while innovations like the REDDI (Report Drunk Driver Immediately) in 1980 and the first checkpoint in 1985 addressed impaired amid economic-driven volume surges. The 1990s saw further adaptations, including 10 additional troopers in for traffic around new limited-stakes gaming sites and ongoing emphasis on commercial motor carrier safety to mitigate crashes from diversified freight, solidifying the agency's transition from traffic-centric to comprehensive highway policing.

Modern Era and Recent Reforms (2000–Present)

In the early 2000s, the State Patrol (CSP) adapted to increasing roadway demands by emphasizing data-driven safety initiatives, including enhanced enforcement against impaired and , amid rising fatalities on state highways. By the , the agency integrated advanced analytics from crash data to prioritize high-risk corridors, contributing to a focus on reducing struck-by incidents through organizational safety protocols outlined in successive strategic plans. These efforts aligned with broader state goals, such as the Department of Transportation's highway safety countermeasures, reflecting CSP's role in fatality reduction without compromising jurisdictional enforcement. The 2025–2026 Strategic Plan underscores CSP's commitment to trooper wellness, professional development via programs, and process improvements to escalating traffic deaths, particularly among motorcyclists, with 165 fatalities recorded in 2024—a record high where 44% involved unhelmeted riders and 20% impairment. In response to legislative changes, CSP ramped up enforcement following the January 1, 2025, hands-free driving prohibiting handheld use, yielding a 135% increase in citations early in the year while promoting compliance through public campaigns. Similarly, the August 7, 2024, lane filtering authorization for s—permitting slow passes in stopped under strict conditions like 15 mph limits—prompted targeted patrols in urban areas to mitigate risks amid surging crashes. Marking its 90th anniversary in 2025 since formation in 1935, CSP highlighted its enduring crisis response capabilities, including road closures and evacuations during wildfires like those in 2016 and ongoing 2025 events, where troopers facilitated emergency access. During the , the agency supported public health measures through traffic control and supply escorts, maintaining operational continuity via annual accountability reports that track performance metrics like fatality rates. These reforms emphasize empirical safety outcomes over procedural expansions, with fostering innovation in threat adaptation up to 2025.

Mission, Jurisdiction, and Responsibilities

The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) was established through Senate Bill 6 enacted in 1935, initially as the Colorado State Highway Courtesy Patrol, with a statutory mandate to promote public safety, protect human life, and preserve the state's highways from damage and misuse. This foundational legislation emphasized highway-focused enforcement to address rising traffic risks amid expanding automobile use, prioritizing prevention of accidents caused by and defects over broader policing. Subsequent expansions under the Colorado Revised Statutes, particularly Title 24, Article 33.5, Part 2, codified the CSP's evolution into a full state-level , granting its officers all powers vested in any peace officer within the state, including authority to make arrests with or without warrants for violations observed in their presence. These powers extend statewide but are constitutionally delimited to align with the agency's core preservation role, distinguishing it from local —who handle routine urban and rural —and federal agencies with narrower interstate mandates. The CSP lacks general for non-traffic municipal crimes, focusing instead on statewide uniformity in to mitigate causal factors such as speeding and impairment, which empirical traffic data identify as primary contributors to fatal crashes. CSP holds exclusive statutory authority over commercial motor vehicle (CMV) regulation and enforcement, including inspections at weigh stations, compliance with federal motor carrier safety standards, and interdiction of illicit cargo on state roadways. Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-235, the agency enforces CMV rules uniformly, with officers empowered to inspect vehicles, drivers, and loads at any time to ensure operational safety and prevent highway degradation from overweight or unsafe transport. In emergencies or disasters, CSP provides mutual aid support to local authorities under peace officer statutes, but this is supplementary rather than a substitute for primary local response, preserving jurisdictional boundaries to avoid overreach.

Primary Enforcement and Service Duties

The Colorado State Patrol conducts high-visibility patrols primarily along state highways and interstates to enforce traffic laws and deter reckless driving behaviors. These patrols target aggressive driving patterns, such as speeding and tailgating, which contribute significantly to preventable roadway incidents. In 2024, troopers made 3,535 arrests for driving under the influence (DUI), focusing enforcement efforts on high-risk periods and locations to interrupt impaired operation before collisions occur. Such proactive interventions, including sobriety checkpoints and targeted stops, have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing DUI-related crashes through visible deterrence rather than solely post-incident response. Troopers also prioritize enforcement against young drivers, who exhibit elevated crash risks due to inexperience and . As of July 29, 2025, CSP investigated 1,475 at-fault crashes involving drivers aged 16 to 19, underscoring the need for vigilant monitoring of teen-operated vehicles on public roads. These efforts emphasize adherence and mitigation, with data indicating that consistent patrol presence correlates with fewer at-fault incidents among this demographic. Beyond enforcement, CSP provides essential services such as certified (VIN) inspections to verify vehicle authenticity and prevent in titling processes, available at designated troop offices for a fee. Troopers offer motorist assistance, including roadside aid for disabled vehicles and initial response to emergencies, originating from the agency's foundational role as a highway courtesy patrol. In collaboration with the (CDOT), CSP participates in targeted roadway initiatives, rotating patrols to high-crash corridors for enhanced visibility and incident prevention. This partnership leverages empirical crash data to allocate resources efficiently, prioritizing deterrence on routes with documented risks over uniform coverage.

Organizational Structure

Leadership and Command Hierarchy


The Colorado State Patrol is commanded by Chief Colonel Matthew C. Packard, appointed in December 2017 by the Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Public Safety. Packard, with over 25 years of service including roles in accident reconstruction and executive security, oversees the agency's operations as part of the Department of Public Safety, which falls under gubernatorial authority. The executive staff comprises Chief of Staff Sarah Allen, appointed in June 2020 as the first non-sworn member in that role, along with three Lieutenant Colonels: Barry Bratt (Region 1, Northwestern Colorado), Brandon Means (Region 2, metro Denver area), and Joshua Downing (Region 3, field operations and communications). The command hierarchy ensures statewide coordination by channeling authority from the Chief through the Lieutenant Colonels, who supervise regions encompassing multiple districts, to Majors and Captains managing specific troops and branches. This structure supports decision-making for operational deployment across Colorado's diverse geography, with regions tailored to cover urban, rural, and specialized functions. Accountability is reinforced via annual strategic plans outlining 17 goals in areas like life protection and professional excellence, executed through the 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) methodology, which in 2024 contributed to a 6.5% reduction in fatal crashes from prior levels. Effective leadership has addressed recruitment and retention challenges amid national shortages, with efforts including participation in 75 career fairs, full of the Capitol Security Unit, and a record Port of Entry academy class, bolstered by legislative approvals for pay increases such as a 2.5% across-the-board raise. These measures reflect strategic focus on maintaining operational strength, with the agency achieving key hiring milestones despite competitive labor markets.

Rank Structure and Personnel Composition

The Colorado State Patrol's commissioned ranks form a hierarchical structure from to , with trooper classifications advancing based on tenure and performance. Entry-level undergo initial before commissioning as I upon graduation, earning $7,825 monthly. Progression to II occurs after four years of service at $9,026 monthly, and to III after eight years at $9,735 monthly, reflecting merit-based advancement tied to accumulated experience and evaluations rather than quotas or external factors. Higher supervisory ranks include , , (historically restructured into higher echelons), for troop commands, Major for districts, for regions, and as chief, with promotions requiring demonstrated competence in field operations and . All commissioned personnel hold Peace Officer Standards and (POST) certification, mandatory statewide for peace officers and achieved at 100% agency-wide since 2022 through rigorous academy completion and ongoing requirements. The Patrol's Basic in , enforces a demanding exceeding POST's 556-hour minimum, emphasizing verifiable empirical proficiencies such as (50 hours), firearms qualification, arrest control techniques, and tests over non-essential ideological components. Cadets must pass all practical skills assessments, including through control tactics and enforcement simulations, to earn certification and assignment. This merit-driven recruitment and progression prioritizes operational readiness, with lateral hires from other agencies entering a 14-week accelerated if already POST-certified. Civilian personnel, comprising non-commissioned roles in administration, , , budget analysis, and , total around 488 full-time equivalents supporting the approximately 695 commissioned troopers. These roles focus on backend efficiency, enabling troopers to concentrate on without administrative burdens, and include specialized positions like emergency dispatchers and program assistants recruited via state hiring processes emphasizing qualifications over diversity mandates. Overall agency staffing of about 1,183 positions balances sworn with civilian to maintain statewide coverage across five districts.

Equipment and Resources

Firearms, Tools, and Protective Gear

Troopers are issued the Shadow Systems MR920 pistol as their primary sidearm, selected for its compact design, reliability, and 9mm caliber effectiveness in close-quarters engagements common during traffic stops. Long guns include the Sionics Patrol Rifle, an AR-15 platform chambered in 5.56mm, deployed for rifle-qualified scenarios involving greater distances or higher-threat suspects to ensure threat neutralization while minimizing over-penetration risks. These firearms are supported by mandatory training emphasizing nomenclature, marksmanship, and tactical deployment, with empirical data from encounters showing that armed readiness correlates with higher survival rates in assaults, where 69.7% of firearm-related deaths occur within of the perpetrator. Less-lethal tools prioritize and compliance in non-deadly continuums, including conducted energy devices for neuromuscular incapacitation and expandable batons for physical control, reducing reliance on firearms when suspects pose resistance without lethal intent. Chemical agents like OC spray serve as additional intermediate options, with training exceeding 62 hours in defensive tactics to align use with proportional response principles grounded in real-world efficacy data from use-of- analyses. Operational tools encompass speed enforcement radars and lidars for accurate velocity measurement during patrols, alongside portable breathalyzers for preliminary DUI assessments to quantify blood alcohol levels and support arrests based on verifiable impairment thresholds. The Hazardous Materials Section equips specialized detection kits, monitoring devices, and response apparatus for spills or incidents involving transported chemicals, protecting responders and mitigating environmental causal chains from leaks. Protective gear includes mandatory ballistic vests and , often supplemented through federal Bulletproof Vest Partnership grants, which NIJ-certified designs have demonstrably reduced penetration fatalities in ballistic by absorbing or deflecting projectiles in torso zones. This equipment, combined with layered uniforms, enhances survivability in pursuits and stops where empirical statistics—drawing from thousands of annual defensive engagements—underscore the causal role of barriers in disrupting lethal trajectories from armed adversaries.

Vehicles, Aircraft, and Technological Assets

The State Patrol's primary patrol vehicles consist of marked s and Durangos, configured for high-speed pursuits and traffic enforcement with silver-and-black and "State Trooper" identification markings. In May 2021, the agency announced a five-year transition to phase out s in favor of Dodge Durangos, retaining an advanced package on both models that activates a reduced-intensity glow when vehicles are stationary and automatically dims further at night via sensors to balance visibility and reduce driver distraction. Rear-facing blue-and-white reflective chevrons on Durangos further enhance officer safety during roadside operations. Unmarked vehicles support efforts, particularly through the , Trafficking, and Section, which targets activities on state highways using covert tactics including deployment in plain units. Specialized enforcement for hazardous materials and commercial motor vehicles involves dedicated units under the Hazardous Materials Section, focusing on transportation safety compliance across Colorado's extensive road network. The Aircraft Unit operates state-owned fixed-wing and rotary aircraft on a 24-hour basis, providing aerial observation, video and photographic documentation for , and transport for personnel, cargo, or prisoners to support missions benefiting all government agencies. These assets enable and pursuit assistance over the state's 104,000 square miles of varied terrain, where ground access can be limited. A turboprop, upgraded in 2025 with an intelligence, , and suite from CNC Technologies—including advanced sensors for transmission—enhances capabilities for tracking and evidentiary collection, with full integration completed by June 2025. The unit sustains five aircraft to ensure reliable coverage despite logistical demands of remote operations. Technological integrations include the Motorola PremierOne Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, upgraded to version 4.4 by fiscal year 2020-2021, which streamlines call handling, resource allocation, and unit tracking for faster response times statewide. Unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) are employed for post-crash scene mapping since 2021, generating 3D models that expedite investigations, evidence preservation, and roadway reopening—reducing secondary crash risks by clearing scenes up to 75% faster in complex rural environments. Fleet maintenance protocols prioritize uptime for vehicles and aircraft amid Colorado's harsh weather and topography, with state fleet evaluations ensuring replacements align with operational demands for pursuit-rated sedans and SUVs. These assets collectively bolster apprehension efficacy and public safety in expansive, low-density areas by leveraging surveillance and rapid deployment technologies.

Operations and Activities

Traffic Enforcement and Safety Initiatives

The Colorado State Patrol conducts targeted high-visibility enforcement operations focusing on speeding, impaired driving, and to mitigate roadway risks. These initiatives include statewide blitzes where troopers prioritize indicators such as lane violations, excessive speeds, and reckless behaviors associated with impairment or phone use. In response to elevated teen driver involvement in crashes, the has emphasized parental ride-along programs, prompted by data showing 1,475 at-fault crashes by drivers aged 16-19 as of July 29, 2025. This figure underscores the prevalence of behaviors like speeding and distractions among young drivers, with troopers advocating for direct observation to instill personal accountability rather than relying solely on regulatory measures. Collaborations with the Department of Transportation have supported a 5% reduction in traffic fatalities in 2024 compared to 2023, achieved through data-driven enforcement targeting high-risk areas and behaviors over broad restrictions. Enforcement efforts have also correlated with measurable declines, such as a 19% drop in inattentive driving crashes in the first five months following enhanced cell phone laws, alongside nearly tripled citations for violations in 2025. Empirical studies affirm that such visible enforcement deters risky driving, with high-visibility campaigns reducing speeding and aggressive behaviors by up to 20-30% during implementation periods, promoting causal links between officer presence and behavioral compliance rooted in individual responsibility.

Criminal Investigations and Interstate Support

The Colorado State Patrol's Smuggling and Trafficking Interdiction Section (STIS), part of the Criminal Investigations Branch, conducts proactive operations to interdict illegal narcotics, dangerous weapons, illicit currency, , and crimes against children on state highways, with a focus on major corridors such as and Interstate 25, which serve as primary routes for . These efforts employ narcotics detection K-9 units, ground and airborne , controlled deliveries, and suspect background checks to identify and disrupt trafficking patterns linked to larger criminal organizations. For instance, in September 2023, STIS troopers seized 290 pounds of during a on I-70 near , arresting two suspects tied to drug trafficking. In 2021, STIS operations resulted in nearly two tons of narcotics seized, including significant and hauls, alongside 68 illegal firearms and over $3.1 million in illicit currency, demonstrating the scale of highway-based interdiction. The Vehicular Crimes Unit (VCU), operating in each of the Patrol's five field districts, investigates organized automobile rings, commercial "" operations, and vehicle through technical and the Certified VIN Inspection program, targeting felony-level vehicular crimes that facilitate broader criminal enterprises. VCU teams, accredited as Level IV reconstructionists by the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction, use such as and mechanical failure examinations to dismantle networks, often involving multi-jurisdictional coordination supported by grants from the Auto Prevention Authority (CATPA). These investigations prioritize causal connections to organized auto , which undermines interstate by enabling the distribution of stolen vehicles and parts across state lines. STIS and investigative units provide interstate support through multi-agency task forces, including the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program, collaborating with the FBI and DEA to address originating from border regions and extending via 's interstates. This includes joint operations for narcotics surveillance and seizures, where CSP's highway expertise complements federal resources in targeting cartel-linked smuggling, as evidenced by HIDTA-facilitated disruptions of and networks. Such partnerships yield high clearance rates for interstate felony cases by focusing empirical on verifiable trafficking indicators, justifying prioritized enforcement to safeguard commerce routes over critiques of profiling, given the disproportionate criminal yields from highway stops.

Public Assistance and Community Engagement

The Colorado State Patrol provides victim assistance through its Victim Services Unit, which offers timely support to crash victims and their families, including information on processes and of rights under the Victim Rights Act, such as fairness, respect, and freedom from intimidation. Contact is available via district advocates across five regions or Director Dolores Poeppel at (303) 273-1618. Additionally, the agency supports victims via a secondary cost assistance program, which covers expenses like rental cars and transportation; relaunched with grant funding for the third year as of August 15, 2025, following an October 28, 2024 announcement of continued operations. Troopers historically assist stranded motorists, a core duty since the agency's formation as the Highway Courtesy Patrol, with public surveys indicating accounts for 5% of interactions in 2024. Such aid, often coordinated via the *CSP (*277) hotline, helps mitigate roadside hazards and supports traffic flow. In disaster response, the Patrol contributes to traffic incident management, including evacuations and roadway control during events like wildfires, through partnerships with the Department of Transportation and adherence to state emergency protocols. This role extends to event security, where troopers attend community gatherings upon request to enhance safety and visibility, as facilitated by the Community Outreach unit. Community engagement emphasizes education, with the agency delivering safety curricula to students, child passenger safety training, and traffic safety programs for residents and visitors. The PILLAR K-12 program partners with schools and businesses to develop educational tools promoting roadway safety. Through the affiliated Family Foundation, the Alive at 25 initiative provides a 4.5-hour awareness course targeting drivers aged 15-24, addressing risky behaviors and habits; nearly 6,100 youths completed it in 2022. These efforts, outlined in the 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, include community meetings and tailored outreach to foster local partnerships and visibility. The Public Affairs Section handles 24/7 and public information, coordinating safety briefings on topics like DUI and seat belts while using platforms—such as and —for direct engagement, including viral educational content to build awareness and trust. This transparency supports compliance by humanizing the agency and disseminating verifiable safety data.

Specialty Units and Programs

Investigative and Tactical Units

The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) operates specialized investigative units focused on felony-level inquiries and technical analyses, including the Investigations Unit, which supports field troops in cases involving , , , narcotics, , and weapons violations. The Vehicular Crimes Unit (VCU), with teams in each of CSP's five field districts, conducts advanced crash reconstructions and forensic examinations of automobile incidents, holding accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Traffic Accident Reconstruction. Complementing these, the and Trafficking Section (STIS) targets criminal enterprises on state highways, interdicting narcotics, dangerous drugs, weapons, currency, and human smuggling operations through proactive patrols and intelligence-driven stops. CSP's tactical capabilities include the Canine Team, which deploys dogs trained for narcotics detection, explosives identification, firearms, and shell casings to disrupt criminal activities and enhance security at high-profile sites like the State Capitol; as of August 2024, this includes specialized units like K-9 Gunner for explosive and firearm detection. The Executive Security Branch (ESB) maintains 24-hour protection for the State Capitol complex and dignitaries, integrating troopers, civilian guards, and a to manage threats including physical intrusions and potential attacks on government officials. The Hazardous Materials Section responds to transportation incidents involving dangerous substances, employing certified technicians to mitigate spills, assess risks, and safeguard and environmental integrity during hazmat events. Enforcement of regulations falls under the Motor Carrier Safety Section, which inspects over-the-road trucks for compliance with federal and state standards on weight, brakes, cargo securement, and driver qualifications to prevent accidents tied to mechanical failures or overloaded loads. The Aircraft Section provides aerial support for tactical operations, including surveillance, search-and-rescue in remote terrains, and pursuit assistance in high-threat pursuits across Colorado's diverse geography. These units coordinate with field districts to address elevated risks, prioritizing data-informed responses calibrated to incident severity, such as threat assessments in interdictions or protective details.

Training and Educational Programs

The Colorado State Patrol operates a rigorous recruit academy for cadets, requiring completion of at least 540 hours of Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) curriculum mandated by the state, supplemented by over 600 additional hours tailored to CSP-specific operations. This training encompasses core areas such as Colorado criminal code, arrest/search/seizure procedures, use-of-force protocols, crash investigation, defensive tactics, firearms qualification, driver training, DUI enforcement, physical fitness, and military bearing to instill discipline. Classes typically begin at 0700 and alternate between classroom instruction and practical skills at facilities like drive tracks and ranges, ensuring troopers apply legal knowledge and tactical skills in simulated real-world scenarios. Following academy graduation, cadets undergo field training to bridge theoretical preparation with on-duty application, emphasizing evidence-based decision-making over rote compliance. CSP maintains ongoing professional development through the Training Services Branch, which delivers refresher courses on high-liability topics including use-of-force reporting and intervention to prevent excessive application by peers, as reinforced in protocols updated in response to statewide data trends. These programs prioritize empirical proficiency in and constitutional limits, with annual requirements aligned to P.O.S.T. standards for renewal, countering narratives of inadequate preparation by documenting consistent qualification rates among active personnel. In public outreach, CSP supports evidence-based educational initiatives like the Alive at 25 program, administered through the Colorado State Patrol Family Foundation, which delivers a 4.5-hour interactive course for drivers aged 15-24 focused on recognition, , and behavioral accountability to reduce youthful crash risks. Complementing this, the Youth Academy offers a free, four-day residential program for residents aged 16-18, emphasizing leadership, physical wellness, and public safety awareness through hands-on activities, scheduled annually in late . These efforts extend core academy principles to civilians, fostering mitigation without diluting operational rigor, and align with broader retention strategies in CSP's 2024-2026 plan that leverage competitive resources to sustain a trained amid pressures.

Achievements and Public Safety Impact

Key Milestones and Certifications

In January 2022, the Colorado State Patrol became the first law enforcement agency in the world to achieve full completion of the National Traffic Incident Management (TIM) Training Certificate among all active-duty troopers, encompassing a 10-module, 10-hour on responder safety and incident response protocols developed by the Responder Safety Learning Network. The agency secured recertification for the Commission on Accreditation for Agencies (CALEA) TRI-ARC award in March 2022, denoting concurrent accreditation across its law enforcement division, training academy, and communications center, a distinction held by fewer than 20 entities nationwide at the time. All Colorado State Patrol troopers hold Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification as required by state law, with the 2022 TIM milestone underscoring agency-wide adherence to advanced professional standards. Marking its 90th year of service since establishment on September 23, 1935, the Colorado State Patrol issued commemorative badges for wear throughout 2025 and hosted events including a banquet, while maintaining foundational operational traditions amid ongoing modernization efforts. The agency expanded its officer wellness initiatives with a dedicated director position, mandatory and training, and events such as the Human First Symposium, targeting challenges including PTSD arising from prolonged exposure to traumatic incidents inherent in duties.

Measurable Effectiveness in Reducing Crashes and

The Colorado State Patrol's enforcement activities have correlated with declines in traffic crashes, as evidenced by trooper responses to 3,535 crashes in 2024, a 9.9% reduction from 2023 levels. Statewide traffic fatalities fell by 5% in 2024 to 684 deaths, reflecting targeted interventions on high-risk behaviors amid stable or increasing vehicle miles traveled. CSP's high-visibility patrols and citation issuance deter violations through elevated perceived risk of apprehension, consistent with demonstrating 12-15% reductions in crashes from sustained . DUI/DUID-involved crashes, which caused 505 injuries or fatalities in and comprise approximately 30% of total traffic deaths, are mitigated by CSP arrests and operations, averting an estimated volume of incidents via general deterrence models that quantify prevented crashes proportional to intensity. On the criminal front, CSP interdiction has removed substantial narcotics from roadways, with seizures decreasing 4% from 2023 but still contributing to statewide records exceeding 2.7 million pills by late 2024 across agencies. Such disruptions interrupt supply chains, empirically linked to lowered trafficking-associated through reduced operational capacity for distributors, as supply constriction elevates risks and costs for perpetrators. Overall, these outcomes affirm enforcement's causal efficacy in enhancing safety, with lives preserved via prevention outweighing marginal implementation variances.

Controversies, Incidents, and Accountability

Notable Misconduct Allegations and Investigations

In 2022, Colorado State Patrol Sergeant Aaron Laing, assigned to the Fruita office and overseeing the , trafficking, and unit, was investigated for dishonesty after altering at least 13 reports over two years, including removals of references to Investigations collaborations and modifications to details of traffic stops targeting suspected drug couriers. These changes were deemed substantial enough to undermine the integrity of enforcement actions, leading to Laing's termination from the agency, though Mesa County prosecutors declined to file criminal charges due to insufficient evidence of intent to defraud. Critics, including groups, argued the alterations masked potentially aggressive tactics that disproportionately affected minority drivers in high-traffic corridors, though the investigation focused primarily on procedural violations rather than profiling. During the June 2022 fatal shooting of Christian Glass by a Clear Creek County amid a crisis response, CSP Trooper Ryan Bennie was among the responding officers and faced second-degree official misconduct charges for allegedly failing to intervene or stop the escalation despite Glass's s for . Glass's family and supporters contended that Bennie's inaction contributed to the unnecessary use of lethal force against a non-threatening individual, highlighting perceived lapses in multi-agency protocols. The charges against Bennie were dropped in May 2025 as part of a broader agreement requiring the officers to participate in training videos on , with no admission of guilt. In a 2023 federal case, Jose Bahena sued CSP troopers alleging wrongful arrest and following a that escalated into detention on unsubstantiated smuggling suspicions, with claims that the officers lacked and fabricated elements of the encounter to justify prolonged seizure. U.S. District Judge Charlotte denied the troopers' motion to dismiss, allowing Fourth Amendment violation claims to proceed, though the suit emphasized individual officer actions over systemic policy. Similar accuser narratives in trafficking-related stops have invoked , asserting disproportionate scrutiny of or out-of-state drivers, but court records in these instances have centered on specific procedural errors rather than proven discriminatory patterns. Investigative reporting in 2023 exposed vulnerabilities in Colorado's Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification process, where officers with prior records from other agencies continued to receive licenses, potentially entering hiring pools for entities like the CSP and contributing to isolated "rogue" behaviors. Despite such allegations, CSP internal affairs data from 2021 showed a 10% decline in total investigations compared to the prior year, with Level 1 (most serious) probes comprising a small fraction of the agency's ~900 personnel amid millions of annual statewide contacts. Substantiated major violations, like terminations for dishonesty or failure to intercede, affected fewer than 1% of the force in documented cases, contrasting with the scale of daily operations involving thousands of and criminal interventions.

Responses, Reforms, and Internal Oversight

The Colorado State Patrol maintains a Professional Standards Section dedicated to conducting independent investigations into all allegations of member , including anonymous complaints, to uphold within the agency. This unit operates under established policies requiring members to report observed by peers to supervisors, with administrative investigations triggered for any such claims, potentially leading to terminations or other disciplinary actions based on findings. These internal probes emphasize procedural integrity over external narratives, aligning with pragmatic adjustments to sustain operational effectiveness rather than implying inherent systemic flaws. In alignment with statewide legislative responses to accountability concerns, the CSP has integrated reforms such as mandatory body-worn camera deployment for all officers effective July 1, 2023, under Senate Bill 20-217, enhancing evidence collection and transparency in interactions. The agency complies with House Bill 19-1119, which mandates public disclosure of completed internal investigation files for peace officers, facilitating post-incident scrutiny while protecting ongoing probes. These measures connect to broader transparency frameworks, including the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) database tracking disqualifying incidents, which has resulted in nearly 70 statewide decertifications for untruthfulness since 2020, indirectly bolstering CSP hiring and retention screening by flagging ineligible candidates. Empirical outcomes, such as sustained certification revocations, indicate these policy tweaks yield measurable deterrence without disrupting core patrol functions. CSP strategic plans from 2021 onward incorporate metrics, including public access to foundational policies and operational data to foster organizational transparency and community trust, as outlined in the 2024-2026 plan's emphasis on evidence-based policing standards. Retention strategies within these plans prioritize rigorous screening and continuous training to mitigate misconduct risks, evidenced by the agency's focus on data-driven performance under the SMART Government Act, which ties funding to verifiable public safety results rather than unsubstantiated reform rhetoric. Post-reform data shows no aggregate decline in CSP effectiveness, with strategic continuity suggesting these adjustments pragmatically address isolated issues while preserving enforcement capacity.

Line of Duty Deaths and Honors

Historical Fatalities and Causes

Since its inception in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol has recorded 30 line-of-duty deaths among its troopers. These fatalities underscore the inherent hazards of duties, including high-speed travel, vehicle pursuits of non-compliant drivers, and direct confrontations with armed or evasive suspects. Vehicular incidents constitute the predominant cause, encompassing automobile crashes (8 cases), crashes (4), being struck by vehicles (3), and one vehicle pursuit-related , often tied to the demands of enforcing traffic laws on interstate and rural highways. Gunfire accounts for 10 deaths, typically resulting from assaults during traffic stops or altercations where suspects resisted compliance, such as Patrolman Harold M. Bechtelheimer, shot by a passenger on September 14, 1949, during a routine stop, marking the agency's first such slaying. Other causes include drowning (1), exposure to toxins (1), heart attack (1), and being hit by a train (1). Patterns reveal elevated risks in pursuits and ambushes, with early examples like Patrolman Arnold B. Gulzow's fatal crash on June 26, 1941, while directing traffic, and Patrolman James K. Farris's patrol car rollover on November 29, 1980, during a chase. Thyfault was struck and killed on May 23, 2015, by a fleeing 's , exemplifying dangers from non-compliant individuals evading capture. Such incidents highlight causal factors like suspect resistance amplifying crash probabilities in high-velocity scenarios, alongside deliberate attacks exploiting troopers' stationary or exposed positions. Over decades, these losses reflect the unyielding exposure to roadway perils and adversarial encounters, demanding vigilant operational protocols amid persistent threats from impaired, speeding, or violent motorists.

Memorials and Legacy Recognition

The Colorado State Patrol Museum, located at 15400 South Golden Road in Golden, preserves artifacts, documents, and exhibits that chronicle the agency's historical evolution and operational heritage, serving as a repository for . Adjacent to this, the Colorado Law Enforcement Memorial at the State Patrol Training Academy honors fallen CSP troopers alongside other officers through inscribed names and annual commemorative events, fostering ongoing recognition of service sacrifices. These tributes, including vehicle wraps on patrol cruisers dedicated to specific honorees, maintain visibility of past contributions during public safety operations. Annual ceremonies, such as the May 2, 2025, event at the , gather personnel and families to reflect on legacies of duty, reinforcing motivation for current amid persistent roadway enforcement demands. The CSP's internal awards program culminates in recognitions like the Valor Award, the highest honor for heroic actions under risk, exemplified by its 2024 presentation to Ziadeh and Bockhold for exemplary conduct. Complementary honors, including the Award for injuries sustained in service, are conferred during these proceedings to affirm resilience and commitment. The Colorado State Patrol Association, established in , bolsters these efforts through #ISupportCSP, an initiative that informs the public on agency challenges while extending practical aid to families, thereby sustaining morale and legacy continuity. Collectively, such mechanisms counter erosion of purpose by empirically linking historical sacrifices to measurable gains in traffic safety , perpetuating a culture of and vigilance.

References

  1. https://csp.colorado.gov/mission-vision-and-core-values
  2. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide
  3. https://csp.colorado.gov/formation-of-the-colorado-state-highway-courtesy-patrol
  4. https://csp.colorado.gov/about-us
  5. https://www.summitdaily.com/news/colorado-state-patrol-has-outfitted-all-725-troopers-with-body-worn-cameras-including-those-working-in-summit-county/
  6. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/documents/Fact%2520Sheet%25202025.pdf
  7. https://costatepatrol.org/our-history/
  8. https://www.codot.gov/about/CDOTHistory/centennial/timeline
  9. https://kool1079.com/colorado-state-patrol-history/
  10. https://spl.cde.state.co.us/artemis/psserials/ps214internet/ps21420142018internet.pdf
  11. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/SP%25202022-2026.pdf
  12. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/documents/SP%25202025-2026%2520%25282%2529.pdf
  13. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-state-patrol-urging-motorcyclists-to-ride-carefully-into-autumn
  14. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/distracted-driving-doesnt-have-to-control-you
  15. https://www.codot.gov/news/2025/march/colorado-hands-free-law-increase-in-distracted-driving-citations
  16. https://www.codot.gov/safety/motorcycle/lanefiltering
  17. https://costatepatrol.org/90th/
  18. https://publicsafety.colorado.gov/press-release/cdps-responds-to-july-wildfires-throughout-colorado
  19. https://spl.cde.state.co.us/artemis/psserials/ps21internet/ps212024internet.pdf
  20. https://csp.colorado.gov/about-csp/strategic-plan
  21. https://codes.findlaw.com/co/title-24-government-state/co-rev-st-sect-24-33-5-212/
  22. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/motor-carrier-safety
  23. https://codes.findlaw.com/co/title-42-vehicles-and-traffic/co-rev-st-sect-42-4-235/
  24. https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/colorado-state-patrol-claims-duis-ruin-relationships-urge-drivers-to-make-wise-choices/
  25. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-state-patrol-focused-on-dui-drivers-for-100-deadliest-days-of-summer
  26. https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/teen-drivers-at-fault-1400-colorado-crashes-2025/
  27. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/get-a-vin-inspection
  28. https://www.codot.gov/safety/shift-into-safe-news/2024/december/cdot-and-colorado-state-patrol-partner-with-local-spanish-language-station-to-encourage-residents-to-plan-ahead-for-a-safe-ride-home-over-the-holidays
  29. https://transportationsafety.colorado.gov/
  30. https://csp.colorado.gov/about-csp/executive-leadership
  31. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/documents/2024%20Annual%20Report%20V9%20%281%29.pdf
  32. https://costatepatrol.org/isupportcsp/
  33. https://csp.colorado.gov/employment/colorado-state-trooper-career-path
  34. https://post.colorado.gov/certification/certification-types/basic-certification
  35. https://csp.colorado.gov/employment/colorado-state-trooper-career-path/state-patrol-basic-training
  36. https://post.colorado.gov/academies/basic-academies
  37. https://csp.colorado.gov/frequently-asked-questions
  38. https://csp.colorado.gov/blog-post/join-the-colorado-state-patrols-lateral-academy
  39. https://costatepatrol.org/isupportcsp-old/
  40. https://csp.colorado.gov/employment/other-csp-job-opportunities
  41. https://csp.colorado.gov/firearms-training
  42. https://revolverguy.com/master-list-of-state-issued-pistols/
  43. https://leb.fbi.gov/spotlights/officer-survival-spotlight-what-is-a-safe-distance
  44. https://csp.colorado.gov/defensive-tactics-and-arrest-control
  45. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24VybvZj89M
  46. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/hazardous-materials
  47. https://csp.colorado.gov/i-want-to/bullet-proof-vest-partnership
  48. https://www.ojp.gov/pdffiles1/nij/189633.pdf
  49. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/taking-on-a-new-look-at-the-colorado-state-patrol
  50. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/smuggling-and-trafficking-interdiction
  51. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/aircraft
  52. https://cnctechnologies.com/news/2025/3/12/cnc-technologies-to-deliver-mission-suite-upgrade-to-colorado-state-patrol
  53. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQWHU6fxSg4
  54. https://spl.cde.state.co.us/artemis/psserials/ps217internet/ps2172021internet.pdf
  55. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-state-patrol-saving-time-and-lives-with-drone-mapping-for-crash-analysis
  56. https://dca.colorado.gov/state-fleet-management/fleet-processes
  57. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/csp-conducts-statewide-operation-to-stop-distracted-driving
  58. https://kdvr.com/news/local/csp-releases-at-fault-crash-data-for-teen-drivers-in-2025/
  59. https://www.codot.gov/news/2025/january/2025-traffic-plan
  60. https://www.codot.gov/news/2025/june/inattentive-driving-crashes-down-19-in-first-five-months-of-new-law
  61. https://www.nhtsa.gov/book/countermeasures-that-work/speeding-and-speed-management/countermeasures/enforcement/high
  62. https://www.ghsa.org/news/research-confirms-roadway-safety-benefits-traffic-enforcement
  63. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/investigations
  64. https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/state-troopers-cocaine-seize-290-pounds-traffic-stop-interstate-70-colorado/
  65. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-state-patrol-highlights-smuggling-trafficking-and-interdiction-sections
  66. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/vehicular-crimes-unit
  67. https://www.rmhidta.org/
  68. https://www.rmhidta.org/administration
  69. https://www.denvergazette.com/2022/07/12/interstate-routes-make-colorado-a-fatal-funnel-for-narcotics-smuggling-996ef4ae-fcb4-11ec-a12e-93d1794b8ab4/
  70. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/victim-rights
  71. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-state-patrol-continues-program-to-support-victims-of-motor-vehicle-theft
  72. https://kdvr.com/news/local/colorado-state-patrol-relaunches-auto-theft-victim-assistance-program/
  73. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/documents/CSP-PublicReport_2024-v2.pdf
  74. https://www.facebook.com/groups/lovelandersgroup/posts/1484855879561512/
  75. https://www.codot.gov/programs/dmo/incident-management
  76. https://www.facebook.com/ColoradoStatePatrol/posts/we-love-getting-to-interact-with-our-community-in-a-positive-way-if-you-want-col/1113480044224052/
  77. https://csp.colorado.gov/community-outreach
  78. https://csp.colorado.gov/community-outreach/pillar-k-12-education-program
  79. https://www.cspff.net/ddc-programs
  80. https://csp.colorado.gov/talk-with-us/public-affairs
  81. https://www.route-fifty.com/management/2019/07/going-viral-colorado-state-patrol/158393/
  82. https://csp.colorado.gov/crash-investigation
  83. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/canine-team
  84. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-state-patrol-introduces-gunner
  85. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/executive-security
  86. https://csp.colorado.gov/did-you-know-that-the-colorado-state-patrol-has-a-haz-mat-team
  87. https://csp.colorado.gov/talk-with-us/branches-sections-and-units
  88. https://csp.colorado.gov/cadet-areas-of-study
  89. https://csp.colorado.gov/legal-training
  90. https://csp.colorado.gov/employment/colorado-state-trooper-career-path/about-the-state-patrol-cadet/trooper
  91. https://csp.colorado.gov/field-training
  92. https://www.denverpost.com/2023/09/14/colorado-state-patrol-intervention-training-excessive-force/
  93. https://csp.colorado.gov/community-outreach/youth-academy
  94. https://www.respondersafety.com/news/news/2022/01/colorado-state-patrol-achieves-historic-first-on-the-responder-safety-learning-network/
  95. https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/colorado-state-patrol-achieves-historic-first-on-the-responder-safety-learning
  96. https://csp.colorado.gov/blog-post/colorado-state-patrol-achieves-gold-standard-again
  97. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/documents/CSP%25202021%2520Annual%2520Report%2520-digital.pdf
  98. https://post.colorado.gov/
  99. https://csp.colorado.gov/blog-post/colorado-state-patrol-reaches-historic-achievement
  100. https://kdvr.com/news/local/csps-90-year-history-filled-with-evolving-technology-techniques/
  101. https://nleomf.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Colorado-State-Patrol-Wellness.pdf
  102. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/documents/2024%2520Annual%2520Report%2520V9%2520%25281%2529.pdf
  103. https://www.denver7.com/news/360/colorado-traffic-deaths-still-trending-down-as-motorcycle-fatalities-jumped-in-2024
  104. https://aashtojournal.transportation.org/colorado-agencies-unveil-2025-traffic-safety-plan/
  105. https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/effect-high-visibility-enforcement-motor-vehicle-crashes
  106. https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/dea-colorado-breaks-yearly-record-for-fentanyl-seizures-with-one-month-left-in-2024
  107. https://www.justice.gov/usao-co/pr/fentanyl-seizures-first-five-months-2022-surpass-all-2021
  108. https://yellowscene.com/2022/12/13/report-sheds-light-on-colorado-state-patrol-stops-altered-reports/
  109. https://www.aspendailynews.com/news/investigation-reveals-colorado-state-patrol-sergeant-changed-reports/article_5f9e61e6-6d3a-11ed-bc31-17d0fbbc7ff0.html
  110. https://www.gjsentinel.com/news/western_colorado/no-criminal-charges-for-former-csp-sergeant-who-falsified-reports/article_4acd0cec-1774-11ee-ab04-bf536c30f426.html
  111. https://www.cpr.org/2025/05/07/christian-glass-death-charges-dropped-for-three-officers/
  112. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=me1q6PyGKoU
  113. https://www.denver7.com/news/local-news/christian-glass-case-charges-dropped-against-3-defendants-in-exchange-for-training-video
  114. https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/charges-dropped-colorado-officers-christian-glass-shooting/
  115. https://www.coloradopolitics.com/courts/federal-judge-refuses-to-dismiss-claims-against-state-troopers-for-alleged-wrongful-arrest/article_e0ffc534-4c39-11ee-b37b-1fc4939d9ee1.html
  116. https://coloradonewsline.com/2023/10/19/undisciplined-rogue-cops-still-licensed-to-work-despite-government-reforms/
  117. https://cdpsdocs.state.co.us/ors/Docs/Reports/2025-LEI-Rpt.pdf
  118. https://csp.colorado.gov/services-we-provide/professional-standards
  119. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/documents/Member%2520Conduct%2520Complaints%2520and%2520Administrative%2520Investigations%2520%25282%2529.pdf
  120. https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/sb20-217
  121. https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb19-1119
  122. https://www.cpr.org/2024/05/15/has-colorados-law-to-crack-down-on-dishonest-law-enforcement-officers-worked/
  123. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/documents/SP%25202022-2026.pdf%2520-%2520new%2520as%2520of%252002.05.24%252C%25202%2520pgs%2520vs%2520original%252021%2520pgs_accessible.pdf
  124. https://csp.colorado.gov/sites/csp/files/SP%25202021-2025.pdf
  125. https://www.odmp.org/agency/784-colorado-state-patrol-colorado
  126. https://csp.colorado.gov/csp-fallen-officer-legacies
  127. https://csp.colorado.gov/colorado-state-patrol-museum
  128. https://csp.colorado.gov/about-csp/colorado-law-enforcement-memorial
  129. https://www.kktv.com/2025/05/01/colorado-state-patrol-honors-fallen-troopers-with-wrapped-cruisers/
  130. https://www.instagram.com/p/DI4V-jKpcYB/?hl=en
  131. https://www.facebook.com/ColoradoStatePatrol/posts/cheers-to-sgt-ziadeh-and-trooper-bockhold-recipients-of-the-2024-valor-award-for/1011759614396096/
  132. https://www.instagram.com/p/DIzaW5dpaua/
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.