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Jeff Martinez chosen as finalist to lead Thornton Police

FINALIST | Officer Jeff Martinez. (Courtesy/9NEWS)

CITY COUNCIL WILL CHOOSE THE NEW CHIEF

Newsroom El Comercio de Colorado

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Jeffrey “Jeff” A. Martinez, a veteran with 25 years of service in the Denver Police Department, has been selected as one of the three finalists for the position of Chief of Police in Thornton, Colorado. Throughout his career, Martinez has demonstrated a consistent commitment to public safety and community integration. During his time with the Denver Police Department, he held several key positions, including Commander of District 1 and District 4, and ultimately Chief of the Denver Homeland Security Bureau.

Martinez has been a role model within law enforcement, especially in the Latino community, where his leadership has been recognized by various organizations. This officer has distinguished himself not only by his professionalism but also by his ability to connect with the communities he serves. He has worked closely with neighborhood groups, church leaders, business organizations, and government agencies to foster an environment of mutual trust between the police and residents.

Jeff Martinez chosen as finalist to lead Thornton Police

His work has led him to receive numerous accolades, including the Hispanic Heritage Trailblazer Award, recognizing Latino officers who have achieved significant milestones in their careers. His inclusion as a finalist for the Chief of Police position in Thornton reflects the experience and respect he has earned over the years. Thornton Police is responsible for protecting a rapidly growing community in recent years.

North of the metropolitan area

Thornton, located north of the metropolitan area of Denver, is a diverse city both in its population and demographic structure. The city has a diverse population, including a significant Latino community, as well as other communities represented by people of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Public safety in a city with this diversity is crucial, and the Thornton Police faces the challenge of ensuring safety and coexistence in a continually expanding and changing environment.

With a population exceeding 140,000 residents, Thornton is one of the most dynamic cities north of Denver, and the future Chief of Police will need to lead in a context of urban challenges, population growth, and the need to implement effective and collaborative security strategies. Martinez is one of three finalists, along with two other distinguished police officers: James Baird, current Commander of Westminster Police, and Christopher Chapmond, Commander of Lakewood Police.

Baird and Chapmond

Baird has served for over 20 years with the Westminster Police Department. Throughout his career, he has led operations in various divisions, including the major crimes investigation unit and the training unit, focusing on improving community relations and innovating security strategies. Meanwhile, Chapmond has been the leader of the Lakewood Police Department since 2017. He has implemented community surveillance programs and crisis management policies. He has also focused on integrating technology.

The selection of the next Chief of Police for Thornton, Colorado, involves a thorough evaluation of the three finalists. After the public meeting on April 3, the Thornton City Council will conduct private interviews with each candidate, where their leadership skills, experience, and vision for the department will be assessed. Subsequently, the City Council will make a final decision based on these evaluations and community feedback.

Meet the Finalists

On April 3, Martinez, Baird, and Chapmond will meet with the community at a “Meet and Greet” event at the Thornton Active Adult Center, located at 11181 Colorado Blvd, Thornton. The event will be an opportunity for residents to ask questions to the finalists, learn more about their vision, and their plans for public safety in the city. The event is scheduled for 6:00 p.m., and it will be an excellent chance to engage directly with the candidates.