DC Sheriff

🔥 Close Call: A Reminder to Stay Vigilant We had a scary reminder this week of how quickly things can change in these dry conditions. Deputies and fire crews responded to a grass fire near I25 and West Tomah Road. It burned approximately .21 acres before it was brought under control. It is suspected that children playing with matches may have started the blaze. Due to the location and speed of the spread, one family had to be evacuated from their home as a precaution. The Good News: Everyone is safe. There was no damage to any structures. The Warning: With the weather staying warm and dry, our grasslands are like tinder. Fires in these conditions spread faster than most people can run. Please talk to your kids about the extreme dangers of matches and lighters, and help us keep Douglas County safe. 📷: Deputy Fermin

Former STEM School Teacher Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation of a Child 45-year-old Tera Johnson-Swartz, a former teacher at STEM School Highlands Ranch, was sentenced to 14 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections. Johnson-Swartz pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of cybercrime. Detectives with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit arrested Johnson-Swartz in February 2025, on charges of kidnapping and contributing to the delinquency of a minor in connection with an inappropriate relationship involving a student. “We are grateful for the tireless work of our Special Victims Unit and the dedication of the District Attorney’s Office in taking this case so seriously. Their commitment ensures that those who prey on our most vulnerable…our children…are held fully accountable. Protecting our youth will always remain one of our highest priorities.” said Sheriff Darren Weekly. “Douglas County has some of the finest teachers in Colorado. I know, because—like many parents in our community—I have entrusted my four kids to be taught by them. This warning is coming from the DA and a parent: if a teacher in our community exploits their position of trust with our kids for their own lascivious desires, we will seek to change their life forever. We will work to make them a convicted felon and we will try to take away their freedom. Here, this predator stated at her sentencing hearing that this conduct will not define who she is. I disagree. She is now a convicted sex offender and will live with that label for decades. For those keeping track, this marks the fourth teacher convicted of a felony sex offense by our office since our office came into existence last year. So far, all have been incarcerated,” said District Attorney @GeorgeBrauchler. @23rdDA

Why did the deer cross the road? Because Deputy Chance was on traffic duty, and even the wildlife listens to him. 📢 Sound up for the kids cheering on the deer (and our deputy)!

🚨 #WantedWednesday 🚨 Do you recognize these three LEGO “enthusiasts”? Not once, but twice… these three walked into the Target in Highlands Ranch separately, then met up in the LEGO aisle. They each picked out several LEGO sets and left the store without paying for them, all heading back to the same car. Similar cases have also been reported in other jurisdictions. Together, they took thousands of dollars in LEGO sets. If you recognize these individuals or have any information about the vehicle, please contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867) and reference case number(s) 2026-00900061 and 2026-00900064.

🩸 Battle of the Badges Blood Drive Returns for Round Two! 🩸 Last year you showed up in a big way: 🩸 212 units donated ❤️ Up to 633 patients helped 🙌 39 first-time donors And in case anyone forgot… 🔵 Law took the win last year. 👀 We’re sure 🔴 Fire will try to redeem themselves, but we’ll see what happens. Join us for this year’s two-day event: 📍 Day 1: Parker Fieldhouse, Parker 🗓 March 24 | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. 📍 Day 2: Douglas County Fairgrounds 🗓 March 25 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 👉 Sign up to donate: vitalant.org/dougcobattle Show your support. Roll up your sleeve. Help save lives. ❤️🚑🚒

This St. Patrick’s Day, we’re reminded how lucky we are to serve this community. 🍀 Whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or good food, please make safety part of the plan. Have fun, celebrate responsibly, and look out for one another. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

ATM Theft Suspects Quickly Located by Deputies Deputies recently responded to a reported theft at an ATM in Highlands Ranch. The victim was withdrawing cash from an ATM when the machine failed to dispense the money. He briefly stepped away from the machine, at which point the money dispensed, and a man and a woman were observed taking the cash and fleeing the area. Deputies quickly arrived and began searching nearby and a drone was deployed to assist in the search. A short time later, they located both suspects and they were taken into custody. During the investigation, deputies recovered the full amount of cash that had been taken. They also located drug paraphernalia, and both suspects were found to have outstanding warrants. They were both booked on multiple charges. Great work by our deputies for the quick response and thorough investigation that led to the suspects being identified. 👏

Recently, one of our deputies had the opportunity to turn a tough situation into a positive one. 🚓🔧 While on patrol, Deputy Rodrigue was dispatched to help a citizen with a flat tire. Without hesitation, he responded, made sure they were safe, and got right to work. In no time, he had the tire changed and the driver back on the road. What makes this story even better? A passerby witnessed the whole thing and later reached out just to share their appreciation, calling Deputy Rodrigue a true “jack of all trades.” From law enforcement to roadside assistance, he handled it all with professionalism and a smile. Deputies don’t do this job for praise. They show up because that’s what they’re called to do. But it’s always meaningful when members of our community take the time to recognize the everyday moments that often go unnoticed. It’s all part of our commitment to serve and protect, not just in emergencies, but in the everyday situations when our community needs us most. #HonorSERVICEValor

Shoutout Saturday! 🌯 For the second year in a row, the Castle Rock Ford dealership team stopped by to thank the Sheriff’s Office for all that we do, and they brought breakfast burritos! We truly appreciate your continued support and partnership. Thank you again for your generosity!

A strong cold front is expected to arrive late this evening, as winds are expected to strengthen once again across the northeastern plains and Palmer Divide behind the front. A few gusts of 55-65 mph will be possible. #cowx

This weekend you might find a pot of gold… but if you drive under the influence, you might find a pair of handcuffs instead. St. Patrick’s Day is here, and deputies will be on the roads this weekend focused on DUI enforcement. Celebrate safely, plan a sober ride, and don’t let a night of fun turn into a night in a jail cell. 🍀 🚔

Today we recognize National K9 Veterans Day and honor the remarkable dogs who serve alongside those sworn to protect our communities and our country. Whether in the military, law enforcement, or other areas of service, these K-9s demonstrate incredible courage, loyalty, and dedication. They work side by side with their handlers, often putting themselves in harm’s way to keep others safe. Today we pause to thank these remarkable service dogs for their service, their sacrifice, and the lasting impact they leave on the people and communities they protect. To the K-9s past and present, thank you for your dedication and for standing the line with those who serve.

While our patrol dogs are out chasing bad guys… some members of our K9 team are chasing dreams. Happy World Sleep Day! 🐕💤 #worldsleepday

Critical fire weather conditions are expected to persist the next two days. A Red Flag Warning is in effect across the I-25 corridor and northeast plains on Friday, while a Fire Weather Watch has been issued for Saturday. Avoid activities that could cause a spark! #cowx

🩸 Battle of the Badges Blood Drive Returns for Round Two! 🩸 After an overwhelmingly successful first year, the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive is back in Douglas County—bringing first responders and the community together once again to help save lives. Last year’s event surpassed expectations with 212 units of blood donated, helping up to 633 patients in need. The drive also welcomed 39 first-time donors, proving how powerful community support can be. Now it’s time to build on that momentum! Join us for this year’s two-day event: 📍 Day 1: Parker Fieldhouse, Parker 🗓 March 24 | 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. 📍 Day 2: Douglas County Fairgrounds 🗓 March 25 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 👉 Sign up to donate: vitalant.org/dougcobattle Show your support. Roll up your sleeve. Help save lives. ❤️🚑🚒

🎉 Please Help Us Welcome Our Newest Team Members! We’re proud to welcome several new faces to our Sheriff’s Office family! Joining our team are two new Detention Specialists, who will play a vital role in maintaining the safety, security, and professionalism of our detention operations. We’re also excited to swear in two new Deputies, who are ready to serve, protect, and make a positive impact in our community. And as we continue to strengthen our commitment to public safety, we’re pleased to welcome our new Wildfire Mitigation and Resilience Coordinator, a key position focused on proactive planning, preparedness, and protecting our community. Please join us in giving them a warm welcome as they begin their service. We’re excited to have them on the team and look forward to all they’ll accomplish! 👏

We are proud of our investigator..and proud of our partnership with @USMSDenver. #toughoncrime

Fugitive Robbie LUCERO, wanted by @dcsheriff for Assault on a Peace Officer, Resisting Arrest, & Theft was arrested by US Marshals in Fresno, CA on Monday. Our COVOTF TFO from DCSO developed info on where LUCERO was hiding and sent a lead to the Fresno Team who made the arrest.

🚨 #WANTEDWEDNESDAY 🚨- Do you know these people? We’re asking for your help identifying two suspects involved in a recent theft at a TJ Maxx in Highlands Ranch. The two individuals entered the store separately and began selecting large quantities of merchandise, including beauty products, apparel, and household items. After meeting up inside the store, they continued adding items to their carts before leaving the store with full carts of about $600 worth of unpaid merchandise. If you recognize these two, please contact Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867) and reference case #2026-00900042. Any information helps!