News

January 4, 2023

Statement of the Denver Police Protective Association
Grand Jury Decision/LoDo Incident July 17, 2022

Today the Denver Police Protective Association was made aware, through the Grand Jury process, an indictment was returned charging a Denver police officer in relation to the LoDo shooting on July 17, 2022.  We are deeply saddened for the citizens sustaining injuries on that night. While we respect the Grand Jury process, we will rigorously defend Officer Ramos, utilizing every available resource at our disposal.  We realize the chilling effect this indictment will have and the impact it has on recruiting, retention, and morale, on an already overworked and understaffed Police Department. 

We are aware of the rising crime in our City and in this State; we are aware of the failed policies of no bond and decriminalization of a number of offenses that have empowered criminals to be brazen enough to carry out acts of violence in heavily populated areas.

Unbeknownst to the public or the police officers on that day, this party should not have been free to walk on the streets, should not have possessed a gun, and surely, should not have created the situation where innocent people were injured and law enforcement officers had to react when confronted by a man with a gun.

Many variables outside of the control of the officers led to this unfortunate incident but we would be remiss if we did not point out this all could have been avoided if the suspect simply would have stopped and showed his hands.  

To charge this officer with a felony crime, jeopardizing his career and liberty for acting as he was trained and in the public interest, with no malice, ill intent or lack of concern, is unfortunate and sad.  We stand behind our officer, remain confident when all evidence comes out it will be clear Officer Ramos is not a criminal and should not be treated as one. The men and women of the Denver Police Department have a long tradition of placing themselves in harm’s way for the sake of protecting others, and when they are criminally prosecuted for trying their best in doing a difficult and dangerous job, it undermines their ability to effectively protect our citizens and undermines the willingness of people to take on the responsibilities of a career in law enforcement.