Published: Jan. 31, 2018

CU Boulder Police Chief Ken Koch is planning to retire next month after serving for three decades in a law enforcement role.

CU Boulder Chief of Police Ken Koch

CU Boulder Chief of Police Ken Koch

Koch was hired as CU Boulder’s deputy chief of support services in 2014 before becoming chief last year. He was integral in expanding the university’s active harmer response training, which has now educated thousands of CU students, faculty and staff. Prior to coming to CU, Koch worked for more than 25 years in law enforcement in Flagstaff, Arizona, and Taos, New Mexico.

Koch praised the CUPD staff, as well as campus affiliates, for making safety a priority.

“It has been an honor to lead and work with the many talented individuals who make up the CU Police Department team,” Koch said. “I feel like we’ve made great strides together to improve safety on campus, and I know that will continue.” 

David Kang, vice chancellor for infrastructure and safety, announced today that he will soon begin a national search for chief of the CU Boulder Police Department. Kang has appointed CUPD Commander Paula Balafas to serve as interim chief.

“I want to thank Ken for his dedication to keeping our campus safe and for advancing the department in many respects,” Kang said. “We are grateful for his service to the university and wish him well in retirement.”