CASTLE ROCK POLICE DEPARTMENT

Bike patrol

Castle Rock is home to over 110 miles of trails and more than 50 parks. These outdoor opportunities benefit residents and visitors, as well as the police officers who are working to keep them safe. Members of the Community Partnership Unit serve as the Police Department’s bike team, which regularly opts for two wheels over four.

“Rain, snow or sunshine, it’s not uncommon to see these officers riding around Town year-round,” said Special Operations Commander Mark Galvan. “Bike patrolling gives us the chance to use less gas, reach areas of Town that may not be as accessible by car and is a direct way to interact with residents on the trails.”

“On any given day, we can ride 15 to 25 miles,” Police Officer Jake Coyle added. “We like to say our job is to protect and shred!”

There are currently 13 Castle Rock Police officers who are certified as public safety cyclists through the International Police Mountain Bike Association.

“Flushing medications down the toilet creates the need for more advanced and costly water treatment options,” said Castle Rock Water Director Mark Marlowe. “Dropping unused medications at the Police Department is a great way for people to help prevent water pollution. We’re grateful for the partnership between our two departments to keep the Town’s water clean.”

While the DEA events are held twice annually, the Castle Rock Police Department also has a drop box for medication in its main lobby, 100 Perry St. Available Monday through Friday during regular business hours, this service is offered as another way to make sure prescription and over-thecounter drugs, vitamins, pet medications and more can be properly discarded.

“In 2022, we collected 1,170 pounds of medication in our lobby drop box,” said Investigations Commander Tim Gorman. “The benefits are really twofold: we’re keeping these drugs out of Castle Rock’s water but also away from individuals or children who shouldn’t have access to them. It’s nice to know the community uses this service, and we’re glad we can provide it for them.”

Other green initiatives

The Castle Rock Police Department continues to find other ways of protecting valuable resources where possible. For example, CRPD used recycled turf from one of the Town’s athletic fields when designing its outdoor fitness yard.

Drug take-back efforts

Every year, CRPD participates in the Drug Enforcement Agency’s National Prescription Drug Take Back events. Held in April and October, these opportunities provide residents a safe way to dispose of their unused medications.

“Not only was the reclaimed turf costeffective, it also allowed us to expand our department’s robust wellness program by providing officers and staff with another option that promotes mental and physical health,” said Commander Galvan.

In addition to its gas vehicles, the Police Department also has a handful of electric and hybrid vehicles in its fleet. CRPD also uses various solar-powered signs to assist with crime prevention and pedestrian and traffic safety.