At a noteworthy event yesterday, the Colorado Department of Transportation, alongside Mothers Against Drunk Driving, enthusiastically recognized the achievements of several law enforcement members for their exceptional service. The 2025 Law Enforcement Champion awards honored individuals and teams across the Front Range who have made significant strides in combatting impaired driving, ensuring the diligent use of seat belts, and curtailing speeds on Colorado roadways.
Last night's ceremony brought to the fore the relentless dedication of these guardians of the road. Among the awardees was Angel Giffin from the Colorado State Patrol, who received the Dr. Robert E. Weltzer Outstanding Dedication to Traffic Safety award. Another highly esteemed accolade, the Sgt. David Baldwin Award was bestowed upon Sergeant Nick Hazlett of Colorado State Patrol / Troop 5B, based in Alamosa, as per CDOT.
"We are ever grateful to the brave men and women in law enforcement who keep our roads and communities safe," said Darrell Lingk, Director of the Highway Safety Office, as obtained by CDOT. He highlighted the comprehensive approach to transportation safety, indicating the crucial role that enforcement plays in keeping impaired drivers at bay, encouraging seat belt usage, and managing speed limits. MADD Colorado State Executive Director Rebecca Green echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the collective efforts in pursuit of ultimately ending impaired driving.
Sponsors for the event were no less essential to the cause, with Bachus & Schanker leading as a presenting sponsor, alongside other contributors like Smart Force and Lifeloc. Their support, no doubt, helps to keep such initiatives pushing forward. In the ongoing battle against traffic fatalities, where about one-third is a result of impaired drivers, the assistance of these officers and agencies becomes even more indispensable. CDOT's "The Heat Is On" campaign aims to actively involve law enforcement, especially during peak seasons and events, striving to keep Colorado's roads safer.
