As I finish up my second month as the chief of police for the University of Colorado Boulder Police Department, I want to express how proud I am to lead this department. The employees, both the civilians and the police officers, work tirelessly to make sure that you are safe while on campus.
CUPD is a full-service police agency, with officers who go through the same training and qualifications as municipal departments. We have our own dispatchers, records technicians, investigators, crime scene technicians, community safety officials and more.
I came from a city agency, the Parker Police Department. During my almost 20 years there, I supervised patrol, investigations, professional standards and support services. I have also been an adjunct instructor at Colorado Technical University, teaching both undergraduate and graduate classes. As a mom of two daughters, I can understand how parents must feel sending their kids to college. I bring all of these experiences with me to the position of police chief.
When I first arrived on campus in September, I was warmly welcomed both by the department and the campus. I have met so many great people across campus and I look forward to meeting even more. I believe strongly that police officers need to be actively involved in the community. Not just when you dial 911, but during low-stress times as well. That is why you have seen us out on campus with Coffee with a Cop. This is a program that started here before I arrived, but I can assure you it will continue.
In some of my initial Coffee with a Cop events and other meetings with students, faculty and staff, I have heard you loud and clear that you want to be informed about crime that happens on and off campus. And you need this information to take steps to stay safe. Your goals are my goals, and your safety is my top priority.
We will continue to send messaging to you via CU Boulder Today, email and social media when there is a major crime on campus. We have asked our partners at the Boulder Police Department to also keep you apprised on crime on University Hill and other areas where students live. We will continue to pass along their messaging.
So when you see us handing out coffee or on foot patrol, don’t be afraid to stop and say “hi” and tell us what’s on your mind. Feel free to ask us questions about the department, staying safe, how to lock your bike properly or any other questions that you may have. In the future, you will see us out more and more in the community.
Again, thank you for allowing me to be your police chief. Have a safe and restful fall break. We look forward to seeing you back here on Nov. 26 to finish out a strong first semester.
Doreen Jokerst
CU Boulder Chief of Police
