Ron Thomas

Denver homicide rates increased by 36.8% through July 1, 2026, compared to the same period last year, despite declines in most other violent crime categories. Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas expressed concern over the rise but did not specify causes, while the department credited crime-reduction strategies like the Drones as First Responders program and seizing 920 illegal guns for lower overall crime rates. The department achieved an 88% clearance rate for homicides in 2026.

Denver police report two fatal shootings linked to vehicle-theft confrontations, urging residents to avoid engaging suspects and instead call 911. The incidents occurred in east Denver and the northside on June 24 and July 9, 2026, contributing to a rise in city homicides. Police emphasize the dangers of confronting suspected thieves, noting both victims died after confrontations.

Denver Police Department has introduced an 'Education-Based Development' policy to replace formal discipline with training for low-level officer misconduct, covering 60-65% of cases. Police Chief Ron Thomas supports the program for faster accountability, while Independent Monitor Liz Pérez Castle criticizes it as undermining city law and community expectations.

Denver's Independent Monitor Lisabeth Prez Castle accuses law enforcement agencies of excluding her office from key policy decisions, citing changes to discipline and Taser policies without consultation. Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas denies the claims, stating his department values accountability and collaboration with the monitor, while some city council members support the monitor's concerns.