Radio Show December 11, 2009

Host: Lieutenant Sean Curtis
Guest: Chief Ron Thompson, Pagosa Fire District
Topic: Winter Fire Safety

Radio Show December 4, 2009

Host: Lieutenant Sean Curtis
Guest: Carrie Trumbell, Paramedic, Upper San Juan Health Services District
Topic: EMS Services in Archuleta County

Traffic Safety and Enforcement

Traffic enforcement in Archuleta County is handled by many law enforcement agencies. In town, the Pagosa Springs Police enforce traffic laws. Along state highways, the Colorado State Patrol handles the duty. In the non-incorporated areas of the county the Sheriff’s Office handles traffic enforcement. This ranges from speeding, to equipment violations, and other applicable laws from the Colorado Revised Statutes 42 Code (traffic and related).

While not a primary duty, the Sheriff’s Office does enforce traffic laws and has the authority to do so, as all deputies are State certified peace officers. While deputies can enforce traffic laws anywhere in the county, they typically focus on county roads and roads in the non-incorporated areas (i.e. all county roads, roads in Aspen Springs, and Holiday Acres).

Much of the focus and time spent in traffic enforcement is directly detailed from the public. Complaints are compiled through dispatch and deputies begin to work these areas looking for violations. Many times the complaints are general—speeders are endangering others, damaging the road or kicking up too much dust. Other times they run the gamut and include snow blocking windshields or no lights on a trailer. At times we receive up to 10 complaints a week about traffic “hot spots”.

The ultimate goal of traffic enforcement is public safety. This is achieved through compliance with state laws and county ordinances. Often times, deputies will issue verbal or written warnings in order to gain compliance. If this is not gained, penalty assessments and summonses can be issued depending upon the severity of the infraction.

The Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office, through a grant, recently acquired nine new radar units for the patrol cars. This greatly enhances the capability of deputies to enforce traffic laws. The public will see them enforcing traffic laws on various county road, usually in response to complaints from residents.

We ask everyone to keep safety in mind while driving.

Lieutenant Sean Curtis

Sheriff's Staff Ring Bells

On November 23, 2009, the Sheriff's Office staff rang bells for the Salvation Army. They had a wonderful time and it was great to see the generosity of the shoppers at the Uptown City Market that day. Please continue to contribute to the Salvation Army Kettle Drive. All of the funding stays local to help families in need.

Radio Show, November 20, 2009

Host: John Weiss, Undersheriff
Guest: Sean Curtis, Patrol Lieutenant
Topic: Things to be thankful for in the Sheriff's Office

Radio Show, November 6, 2009

Host and Guest: Lieutenant Sean Curtis
Topic: Preparing for this winter