Denver sheriffs should be proud of what they do

This letter has not been edited

Lenny Ortiz, no hometown listed

Monday, June 16, 2008

As a past Denver deputy sheriff, I remember many fighting for more power and duties during my tenure. The conclusion I came to was the City and the police do not want this to happen. Until deputies get the blessing of the police, they will never have more powers or jurisdiction.

The Denver Sheriff Department has performed the same duties since 1902 and many lawsuits have been filed against the City by deputies for more powers, all have failed. The deputies have failed to prove more powers on or off duty would benefit the citizens.

If one knows anything about arrest powers in the State of Colorado, deputies already possess the powers they are asking for. If a deputy observes a crime being committed, they can act to prevent and detain the offender. If their life or another is in jeopardy, they can use force to squelch the threat. What more does a deputy need? Unfortunately, deputies are not covered under Workman’s Comp. as they are considered citizens when not on the clock. If this is the sticking point, the City should cover the deputy in the event they are injured.

Deputies are authorized to carry concealed weapons while off duty. Let me remind you of a jail deputy who used deadly force against an individual who was a clear and present threat. The deputy while off duty, was cleared of any charges.

Denver deputies will never be patrol officers or detectives, other than in there own internal affairs unit. Denver is not interested in “certifying” deputies to perform their duties. The Denver Police have successfully disbanded the Denver Park Police and the Denver Airport Police so they could be the main police agency. What makes deputies think the police will give up any part of the pie? Many join the DSD for many reasons, some use it as a stepping stone to other departments and many make it a career. All deputies are told that they will not be patrol officers and the duties are explained very clearly. If one cannot accept the role and duties of the DSD, they should not apply.

As far as pride, the DSD is the largest sheriff agency in Colorado and handles more inmates than many sheriff’s offices combined. To combine the sheriff/police operation like in Las Vegas would take away the identity of the department. Denver deputy sheriff’s need to take a page from the play book of the San Francisco Sheriff’s Department, whose duties are exactly the same as Denver deputies. Be proud of what you do and know you are making a difference in the community you serve.