Please join us in congratulating Officer Joeseph Yen on his transition to the role of Detective with the Cortez Police Department, effective May 11, 2026.

Joe began his journey with CPD on December 30, 2019 after attending the PCC Academy and graduating in May 2020. This is his first position change within the department.

Throughout his career, Joe has pursued specialized training in drug interdiction training, less lethals, human trafficking courses, interview and interrogation, and the Reid Technique of investigative interviewing. He is also a Certified Bike Patrol Officer and an FTO (Field Training Officer). His drive to learn and improve has made him a strong asset to our team.

Joe grew up in the valley and Northern California before coming to Colorado for his daughter. He often jokes that he “got lost and was stuck here,” but Cortez is grateful he stayed. With a business degree already completed and hopes of earning another, he continues to push himself both personally and professionally.

His path to law enforcement was shaped by what he witnessed growing up, including gangs, violence, and drugs. His father told him as a teenager that he had two choices. He could follow the path of others around him or he could choose to be his own person. Joe chose to help the community rather than hinder it. As the first in his family to break that cycle, he hopes to be a positive role model for others.

Joe lives by a message that keeps him grounded:
“Always pray to have eyes that see the best in people, a heart that forgives the worst, a mind that forgets the bad, and a soul that never loses faith in God.”

To the community, he shares this reminder: show each other grace. Working together makes us stronger and shows our youth what unity looks like.

When asked what he loves most about the job, Joe says it is being able to help the community he lives in. Protecting and serving Cortez is what he enjoys most about the job.

Joe also gives a heartfelt shout out to his wife, Kymberlee, and his kids. He says they have been his rock and have supported him through every decision. He is grateful to have them by his side.

Congratulations, Detective Yen. Cortez is proud of you.