What makes someone dedicate their life to policing? For Deputy Chief Jim Martin of the Pueblo Police Department, it's about community connection, innovation, and heart. Born and raised in Pueblo with family roots stretching back a century, Martin returned after military service to protect the community he loves – not just as an officer, but as a youth football coach impacting hundreds of kids' lives.

Technology is revolutionizing how Martin's department serves their Colorado community. Their Real-Time Crime Center deploys drones to emergency scenes within 60-90 seconds, providing officers with what Martin calls "an angel in the sky." The results are tangible: 21 shooting victims received life-saving care who would have otherwise gone undiscovered, as no citizen calls were received for these incidents. Despite these advanced capabilities, Martin emphasizes strict policies protecting privacy rights while enhancing public safety.

The conversation tackles recruitment challenges facing departments nationwide, particularly in states with recent police accountability legislation. Yet Martin remains focused on building trust, dismissing the misconception that officers choose the profession "because we're bullies." Instead, he offers a simple truth: "We do this job because we care and have a deep love and passion for our communities." Perhaps the greatest testament to this philosophy? Two officers now serving alongside Martin once played on his youth football teams as fifth graders.

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Published on Jul 01, 2025