A confidential 66-page investigative report obtained by local reporters accuses Denver Police Division Chief Magen Dodge of running a “severely abusive” and at times “ruthless” workplace that some officers say left them with panic attacks, ulcers, and even hair loss. The outside probe concluded that Dodge bullied and retaliated against subordinates and, according to those interviewed, interfered with internal affairs processes. City officials have kept the document under wraps while an internal disciplinary review plays out, and no public discipline has been announced so far.
According to CBS Colorado, the report was prepared by former U.S. Attorney Robert Troyer and describes Dodge’s conduct as “severe and pervasive,” concluding she “created an abusive, bullying work environment” and “tormented” subordinates. The report also states that Dodge and her husband “manipulated, intimidated, and interfered” with a subordinate’s participation in an internal affairs investigation, and that investigators found the sergeant was “not truthful” in his interview. CBS Colorado’s review of billing records shows the city spent more than $110,000 on the outside investigation.
Who Is Magen Dodge?
Division Chief Magen Dodge has been with the Denver Police Department since 1998 and currently oversees administration and support, according to the city’s police directory. The City of Denver lists her among the department’s top executives and notes earlier leadership roles, including in internal affairs.
Dodge previously filed a sexism complaint that led to a settlement with the city, a dispute covered by local reporters and public records that critics say looms over the department’s already fraught workplace history. CPR News covered that complaint and the resulting settlement.
Department Response and Review Process
Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas told reporters he had not yet read the investigative report but said he “was interested in the investigation and hoped it comes to a conclusion so we can move on,” according to CBS Colorado. Thomas defended promoting Dodge two years ago and said he has not personally seen the behavior described in the report.
The completed outside investigation has been sent to the Denver Sheriff’s Department for review and possible recommendations as the city weighs disciplinary options.
Why This Matters Locally
Officers and former employees told investigators their mental and physical health took a hit under the alleged conduct, raising alarms about morale and the department’s ability to function effectively. Community groups and elected officials have been pressing for stronger transparency and independent oversight after a string of high-profile complaints and settlements that have chipped away at public trust.
For now, the city says it is “respecting the process.” Inside and outside the department, though, there is growing pressure for a clear timeline on what happens next and whether anyone at the top of the Denver Police Department will face public accountability.
