To our campus community,
Ever since Monday’s tragic events at the King Soopers at Table Mesa and Broadway, we have received an outpouring of support and concern from across our CU Boulder campus and the country. We can never express to you how much that means to all of the members of our department. As messages are sent to me, I am sharing those with our CUPD staff.
It takes a special type of person to willingly wear the uniform or work in a professional staff position for any law enforcement agency. Every police officer knows when they say goodbye to their loved ones before going to work each day that it could be the last time that they are together. Yet, our officers come to work, put on that uniform, and proudly serve and protect our community. It is not a job; it is a calling.
Our hearts are truly broken for the family and friends of Officer Eric Talley, who answered that calling and gave his life to protect the community, and of all of the innocent victims.
Even though dealing with loss and death is something that we do all too often, incidents like this are never easy to comprehend for any of us. Our hope for the days and weeks ahead is that our collective actions and support for one another enables our community to focus on healing.
There will be opportunities for you to show support for all of the victims in the coming days. I would encourage you to participate if you are inclined to do so. Please do not internalize any grief, sadness or any other feelings you may be dealing with. Talk to a family member or trusted friend. There are resources available for you through the university. Students are encouraged to reach out to the Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) or Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS). Faculty and staff can find resources through the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program (FSAP).
Again, thank you for your support of our department during this difficult time. We are extremely proud to serve as your police department.
With gratitude,
Doreen Jokerst, chief, CU Boulder Police