The Cortez Police Department remains deeply committed to community engagement as the foundation of everything we do. We believe that public safety is most effective when it is built on trust, transparency, and genuine partnership between the department and the people we serve.
 

Our Mission — "To enhance the partnership between businesses, citizens, and the police by providing responsive and professional services." Our Mission continues to guide our daily work.
Our Vision — of "delivering unparalleled service through strengthened community relationships and public trust" is not just an aspiration; it is the standard we hold ourselves to every day.
Our Core Values — of "Professionalism, Integrity, Compassion, and Service" remain the foundation for how we approach every interaction.
 

In recent years, the Cortez Police Department has worked to strengthen and modernize our operations while keeping the community at the center of our efforts. We have expanded training, improved technology, and invested in the wellness and professional development of our personnel, because a well-prepared, well-supported department is a better department for the community it serves.
 

CRIMEWATCH remains one of the tools we use to promote transparency, share information, and keep you connected to your police department. We have significantly expanded our community reach, and we are grateful for the engagement and trust you continue to place in us.
Public safety is a shared responsibility. When the community and the police department work together, sharing information, building relationships, and holding one another accountable, we create a safer, stronger Cortez for everyone.
 

After five years on the CRIMEWATCH platform, we have seen firsthand the value of an informed and engaged community. Your participation, whether through tips, comments, or simply staying connected, makes a real difference. I invite you to continue exploring our pages, stay informed, and reach out with any questions or comments. Your voice matters to us, and your partnership makes Cortez safer.
 

Thank you,
Vernon Knuckles 
Chief of Police, Cortez Police Department