Denver's head of public safety, Armando Saldate, will be leaving his post to step into the role at the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. His shift in roles takes effect immediately after over three years of spearheading the city's safety initiatives. Saldate, who first took on the role of Executive Director of Public Safety in early 2022, was reappointed by Mayor Mike Johnston following a city nomination in late 2023.
Mayor Johnston praised Saldate's tenure, highlighting his "integrity, steady leadership, and a deep commitment to our community," according to the City and County of Denver. Saldate himself reflected on his decade-long experience within the department, expressing pride in the resilience and dedication of the public safety staff he worked alongside.
Saldate's departure leaves an opening at the top of the Department of Public Safety. Jeff Holliday, currently the Chief of Staff for the department, will step in as the acting Executive Director. The process to find Saldate's permanent replacement is expected to commence shortly, aiming to fill the significant shoes his leadership has left behind.
Commenting on his new position and ongoing commitment, Saldate told the City and County of Denver, "Though I am stepping away from this role, my support for this team and this community remains as strong as ever." He looks ahead to the future, anticipating strong developments in Denver's public safety landscape even as he moves on to statewide responsibilities.
