| | Hello Denver Community Members,
As the Chief of Mental Health Services and Programs Division, I am grateful to have the opportunity to continue our partnership with each of you and provide an update on two exciting programs we are currently offering at the Denver Sheriff Department (DSD). These programs are directly related to the importance of preparing people in our custody for success in the community.
Throughout 2022, we developed a parent-child bonding room at the Denver County Jail. Mothers with children, two-years-old and under, can visit their baby while in our custody. Under direct supervision of a parenting specialist, pregnant women in our custody give birth at the Correctional Care Medical Facility (CCMF) at Denver Health. A companion or doula may be present and new mothers are able to bond with their newborn baby. The DSD understands the importance of a healthy attachment between mother and baby during this vital time, regardless of incarceration status.
Additionally, the DSD has developed a partnership with the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel to facilitate employment for persons in our custody upon release. While in custody, they can apply for a job, complete an application/background check, interview for the job, and potentially get hired – all before leaving jail. This opportunity helps prevent future criminal behavior that could result in a return to jail.
Thank you all for supporting us throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and staffing challenges. We continue to focus on ensuring persons in our custody have opportunities, both inside and outside of jail, and that they return home to their families and communities.
Take care,
Dr. Nikki Johnson |
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Welcome Back ProgramAs we address staffing challenges, the Denver Sheriff Department (DSD) is extremely appreciative of the continued support and partnership we receive from Mayor Michael B. Hancock, the Denver City Council, and the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #27. We are hopeful that a retention bonus helps to retain the great people who make up the Denver Sheriff Department while, simultaneously, we actively recruit community members who want to embark on a fulfilling career in public service. With the recent launch of our "Welcome Back Program," we look forward to rehiring those who have recently left our department.
Former Denver Deputy Sheriffs, separated since 9/1/20, are eligible for the Welcome Back Program; however those who have either retired or were terminated are not eligible. According to pre- and re-employment requirements, all candidates are subject to various vetting protocols with final approval granted by Sheriff Diggins. To learn more about joining the DSD as a professional or sworn staff, visit the Careers page on our website. |
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Colorado Public Radio (CPR) NewscastSergeant Stephanie Laing of the DSD's Recruitment Team spoke with CPR about how law enforcement agencies across Colorado are struggling to hire for thousands of open positions. According to the article, "Laing said she hasn’t worked a single year where she didn’t make more than $100,000 — much of that due to overtime pay." Read more about staffing law enforcement agencies across the state in the CPR News article. #BeTheChange and apply for a career with the DSD! |
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Congratulations, Major Janelle Orozco!The DSD is celebrating the appointment of the first Latina major, Major Janelle Orozco, who was sworn in on September 9, 2022, by Sheriff Diggins! She has worked for the DSD for nearly 20 years, starting as a deputy, then sergeant, then captain, and now major. She’s excited to get started in her new position and we’re excited to be the benefactors of her expertise. |
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RISE ProgramRISE is an intensive, peer-led substance use treatment program for those in our care. It is meant to build a foundation of recovery and improve community safety. The Programs Team recently attended a Denver Peak Academy process mapping training for the RISE program – we're always looking for ways to improve! |
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Parent-Child Bonding RoomThe DSD continues to work on ways to keep the individuals in our custody connected with their family members and loved ones. We are excited to announce the Parent-Child Bonding Room project is complete and has been designed to provide a non-corrections environment space for parent-child visits. DSD employees were trained on how to best facilitate the visits that take place in this room. They also learned best practices related to safety and well-being, neutrality, and respect for all participants. The room is utilized by new parents in custody and also by postpartum persons in custody to visit with and bond with their newborn child. Parent-Child Bonding Room visitation appointments began in July 2022. |
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