I was deeply saddened by the tragic loss earlier this month of Deputy Clark Kreger of the Routt County Sheriff’s Office and Deputy Alycia Riggs of the Grand County Sheriff’s Office. As district attorney, I am privileged to work very closely with the law enforcement, fire, and emergency services professionals in Grand, Routt and Moffat counties. Losing two shining members of our community within 48 hours was a heart-wrenching blow.
In the face of such a loss, it was deeply gratifying to see our community in northwest Colorado rise to support the families and friends of these two officers. I was very moved by the gestures of support that ranged from financial donations, to the neighbors with their hands on their hearts as the several-miles long memorial processions wound through Routt County on Feb. 5 and Grand County on Feb. 7.
Also deeply gratifying were the hundreds of officers who joined the processions and ceremonies representing federal, state, county and municipal agencies from all corners of Colorado. It was a powerful expression of solidarity and support for our community.
To me, these ceremonies were a stark reminder that our public safety professionals face emotional and physical risks on and off the job every day. And yet, fully aware of these risks, these men and women report for their shifts, don their uniforms and strap on the gear to be there for our citizens in their moments of need. There is no higher calling than selfless service; there are few greater examples of courage.
Deputy Kreger and Deputy Riggs answered their final calls. And so their brothers and sisters sounded “end of watch” for these two fine officers.
My thoughts and prayers go out to their families and friends. And may we all pause for a moment to thank the men and women who serve us all in law enforcement, fire, and emergency services in northwest Colorado.
Brett D. Barkey is district attorney of the 14th Judicial District serving Grand, Routt and Moffat counties.
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