Colorado's streets have been made safer by the efforts of its law enforcement officials, as recognized in a recent ceremony where the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) announced the winners of the 2025 Law Enforcement Champion awards. The commendations honored individuals and teams dedicated to reducing impaired driving on the Western Slope and Mountain regions, enforcing seat belt usage, and curbing speeding incidents.
Amongst the celebratory mentions, Trooper Gabriel Watkins from the CSP Troop 5A in Durango, Officer Daniel Molina from the Craig Police Department, and Trooper Dennis Guffey from the CSP Troop 4A in Fruita were highlighted for their contributions to occupant protection and impaired driving enforcement. Deputy Monica Dominguez from Conejos County and Officer Gilbert Mcvay from the Palisade Police Department also earned accolades for their work on the same front. The CSP Troop 4A Fruita gained recognition for their collaborative efforts as a team. In an event also marked by sponsors such as Bachus & Schanker, CDOT expressed gratitude for the "brave men and women in law enforcement."
"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 per CDOT. The agency's holistic approach to highway safety acknowledges the pivotal role public safety officials play. Additionally, their prevention and enforcement strategies are credited with enhancing road safety.
Rebecca Green, MADD Colorado State Executive Director, emphasized the lifesaving significance of these officers' actions: "So many people will never know the debt that they owe to our law enforcement heroes. Every time they stop a drunk or drugged driver, they potentially save a life," she said, as obtained by CDOT. Her words underscored the importance of continued efforts by various agencies and individuals, asserting that collective efforts can bring an end to impaired driving.
Additional accolades were given for efforts in underage drinking prevention and victim advocacy, with special mention to the Colorado Liquor Enforcement Division and Alicia Bourdon-Goure, CSP District 4's advocate. Corporal Jordan Horan and Chief Greg Daly also received awards for their roles in drug recognition and leadership, respectively.
