Thornton Police Dept

🤝 Serving & protecting our community in Thornton, CO 📞 Non-Emergency: [phone] 🚔 This page is not monitored 24/7, call 9-1-1 for emergencies

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

ThorntonReady Emergency Alerts are here! Learn more and sign up today. 👇

[City of Thornton @CityofThornton]

✅ Be Prepared. Be Thornton Ready. 📣 The city of Thornton’s new ThorntonReady Emergency Alerts makes it easy to stay informed about community emergencies, law enforcement activity, and more. Visit https://t.co/qY0cKTjP5E to learn more! @ThorntonPolice @ThorntonFire

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

Over Memorial Day weekend, the #ThorntonPD Traffic Unit teamed up with Colorado State Patrol and surrounding agencies for a high-visibility enforcement operation targeting speeding, reckless driving, and move-over violations on I-25.

Our officers contacted 81 drivers and issued 67 speeding tickets — and this driver thought 124 mph was acceptable. It's not. Speeding like this puts every person on the road at risk. It's dangerous and it won't be tolerated.

Slow down, move over for emergency vehicles, and make sure everyone makes it home.

#ThorntonPD is committed to making our streets and highways safer for everyone, and we'll keep showing up to make that happen.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

Mission accomplished 🫡

The school year may be coming to an end, but you’ll still see your #ThorntonPD SROs out and about all summer long. 😎 Stay safe and enjoy the break!

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

Reminder: See something, say something!

If you think a crime may be occurring, or that your safety or the safety of your neighbors may be at risk, don’t hesitate to call 911. If it’s not an emergency but something doesn’t seem right, report it through the #ThorntonPD non-emergency line at 720-977-5150.

Things worth reporting:
• People checking vehicles or mailboxes
• Unfamiliar vehicles repeatedly circling
• Someone attempting to access homes or garages
• Suspicious activity caught on camera

While it may seem minor or easy to dismiss, information from residents often helps identify patterns, connect incidents, and prevent additional crimes. Not every unusual situation is criminal, but if something feels off, let us check it out. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and reporting suspicious activity early can make a difference.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

This #MemorialDay, we honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice and dedication will never be forgotten.

From all of us at #ThorntonPD, we wish you a safe and meaningful day as we reflect and remember.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

NEWS RELEASE (UPDATE): Thornton police investigate triple homicide; suspect identified and believed to have died by suicide

The Thornton Police Department has identified the suspect in a triple homicide that occurred on the evening of May 22 in the 13900 block of Harrison Street.

Officers were dispatched shortly after 8 p.m. after a family member reported concern that multiple individuals inside the residence were unresponsive.

Upon arrival, officers entered the home and located four deceased individuals with apparent gunshot wounds: two adult males, one adult female, and one juvenile male.

Based on the initial investigation, detectives believe one of the adult males, a 33-year-old, fatally shot the three other family members before dying by suicide.

Suspect and victim identities are being withheld pending positive identification by the Adams County Coroner’s Office and notification of next of kin. The investigation remains active, and the information released reflects what is currently known.

The entire Thornton Police Department is deeply saddened by this tragedy and extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of everyone involved. We recognize that incidents like this are difficult for neighbors and our entire community. Those in need of support are encouraged to seek available resources.

The Thornton Police Department, our Victim Services Unit, and our Co-Responder Team are available to provide support and can be reached at 720-977-5150, or by calling 911 in an emergency.  Additional resources are available through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

NEWS RELEASE: Thornton Police investigate homicide

The Thornton Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred on the evening of May 22 in the 13900 block of Harrison Street.

Officers were dispatched shortly after 8 p.m. following a report from a family member who believed multiple individuals were unresponsive inside the residence.

Upon arrival, officers made entry and located four people obviously deceased. Their identities are being withheld pending positive identification by the Adams County Coroner's Office and notification of next of kin.

Detectives believe there is no threat to the community. The investigation remains ongoing, and the information provided reflects what is currently known.

Anyone with additional information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Thornton Police Department tip line at 720-977-5069.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

NEWS RELEASE: Thornton police investigate domestic homicide; suspect later dies by suicide

The Thornton Police Department has concluded a homicide investigation that began in the early morning hours of March 15, 2026, at a residence in the 13200 block of Downing Street.

Officers responded after 42-year-old Chad Gililland reported that his wife, 43-year-old Cheyenne Gililland, was unresponsive. Upon arrival, officers located Cheyenne lying on the floor inside the residence with no visible signs of fatal injuries. She was pronounced deceased at the scene, and detectives immediately launched an investigation.

Determining the manner of death required extensive forensic testing by the Adams County Coroner’s Office, along with additional analysis of evidence and investigative follow-up. On May 20, the coroner determined the manner of death to be homicide and listed the cause of death as closed head injuries due to blunt force impacts to the head due to a physical assault.

Through the course of the investigation, Thornton Police detectives, in partnership with the 17th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, established probable cause to believe that Chad was responsible for the death of his wife.

On March 23, eight days after Cheyenne’s death, dispatchers received a report of a shooting at the Gililland residence. A caller reported that an adult male had shot himself. Officers arrived on scene and confirmed that Chad had died by suicide.

Due to Chad’s death, the investigation is considered closed.

“No family should have to experience a loss like this,” said Thornton Police Chief Jim Baird. “Our thoughts remain with Cheyenne's loved ones and everyone affected by this tragedy. We hope that sharing information about this case brings attention to the seriousness of domestic violence and reminds anyone struggling that they are not alone and support is available.”

For information on identifying abuse, visit https://t.co/6M9gq75of2. For legal assistance and protection order information, visit https://t.co/0QcqnAjWd7. The Thornton Police Department and our Victim Services Unit can be reached by calling 720-977-5150 or 911 in an emergency.

Additional support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233, and the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

In case you missed it, Officer Duskey was recently named the first ever School Resource Officer of the Year by Adams 12 Five Star Schools!

This recognition reflects the lasting impact he continues to make within the schools and the relationships he has built with students, staff, and the community.

School staff praised his proactive and supportive approach, noting that he empowers students to make informed decisions and consistently reinforces that his role is to guide and support, not just enforce.

His professionalism, authenticity, and genuine care for others have made him a trusted presence throughout Thornton. We are incredibly lucky to have him at #ThorntonPD!

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

Those Who Serve: Officer Cullen

Officer Cullen leads firearms training at #ThorntonPD's North Metro Police Academy (NMPA). The standards he sets and the time he invests in each officer directly carry over into the field, strengthening officer and community safety!

What drew you to working in the Training Unit?
I found great fulfilment in teaching others while in the military and wanted to replicate that same growth for our department.

What’s something most people don’t realize about how officers are trained?
Most people don’t understand the amount of time required by the Colorado POST to just become an officer, let alone the ongoing amount of time to maintain certification annually. Thornton PD exceeds that standard not only with time, but with high-quality training.

What’s been one of your most rewarding moments as an instructor?
As a POST Instructor, I’ve had many. But my most dear would be when I had the opportunity to oversee NMPA Class 2 graduate from recruits to police officers.

If you weren’t in this role, what do you think you’d be doing?
As much as I love the Training Unit, my heart is still with patrol. It’s the best job in law enforcement.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

We are so sorry to announce that, due to tomorrow's weather forecast, we will be canceling the May 20 Summer Kickoff. We are looking at another date in August to make up this event, and will share that information as soon as we can!
Be sure to check out the @CityofThornton summer events calendar as we will have police officers at most of the large events and would love the chance to connect with you all there: https://t.co/LS1bQLEnZz

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

We invite you to celebrate the start of summer at this year's Summer Kickoff Party on May 20, 6 - 8 p.m. at Carpenter Park, 3498 E. 112th Ave., near the carousel and splash pad. This free, family-friendly event brings together public safety teams, city departments, and local partners for an evening packed with fun, food, and community connection.

Stop by Thornton PD team tents and meet your public safety teams, including Community Liaison Officers, Animal Control, Victim Services, Dispatch, and Co-Responders, plus Code Compliance, Community Connections, and more.
There will also be big attractions and live demonstrations such as a helicopter landing, emergency vehicles on display, Karate demonstration, face painting, food trucks, yard games and access to the park's carousel and splash pad area.

Bring your family, invite your neighbors, and join us for an evening of excitement, engagement, and summer celebration!

For more information, contact the Thornton Police Department Community Liaison Team at [email protected].

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

Friday’s Law Enforcement Torch Run was an incredible reminder of what community support can do! 🤝

Together, we raised more than $6,000 to support @SpecOlympicsCO athletes.

Thank you to everyone who ran, donated, cheered us on, and helped make this event such a success. We couldn’t do it without you!

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

Today, on Peace Officers Memorial Day, we pause to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to their communities. Behind every badge is a person who chose to serve, and we will never forget those who gave everything because of that choice.

This week, #ThorntonPD officers joined law enforcement from across the nation in Washington, D.C. for National Police Week, standing together in remembrance and solidarity for the fallen and the families they left behind.

To all who wear the badge: thank you. And to those who gave everything, we remember you always.

[CBI @CBI_Colorado]

Missing Indigenous Person Alert Activation
Dakota Santiago, Indigenous female with pink hair and brown eyes, 5'07"/100 lbs, last seen in Thornton, Colorado.
Dakota Santiago was last seen wearing a white sweater and black sweatpants.
If seen, please Thornton PD at 720-977-5150.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

Congratulations to #ThorntonPD Officers Wise, Klein, Myers, Kingsley, Warman and Wyatt on completing the Adams County Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training!

This intensive week-long course trains officers to better identify and de-escalate crisis situations with compassion and skill. Each officer participated in real-world scenarios that increased in difficulty, with fellow students providing valuable feedback along the way.

A special shoutout to Officer Wyatt, who earned the Outstanding Student Award for his exceptional performance and dedication throughout the training.

We are proud of all six graduates and the commitment they show to serving our community.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

NEWS RELEASE: Thornton Police investigate homicide

The Thornton Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred just after 3 a.m. on May 10 in the 9700 block of Ogden Court.

Officers were dispatched to the area after a caller reported that someone was attempting to break into their vehicle and that shots had been fired. Upon arrival, officers located a crashed truck.

A 34-year-old male was found near the crashed truck suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Investigators believe the individual seen breaking into vehicles attempted to leave the area in the truck following the shooting, at which point he struck multiple parked vehicles before coming to a stop. Officers began rendering aid until medical personnel arrived.

The victim was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. His identity is being withheld pending positive identification by the Adams County Coroner's Office and notification of next of kin.

The homicide suspect, a 23-year-old male, was quickly identified on scene and taken into custody in connection with the incident. He was arrested and later released pending charges and further investigation. Investigators do not believe the victim and suspect knew each other.

The Thornton Police Department thanks nearby residents for their assistance and cooperation in providing critical information during the initial investigation.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the information provided reflects what is currently known. Details may change as the investigation continues. Anyone with additional information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Thornton Police Department tip line at 720-977-5069.

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

#ThorntonPD officers are investigating a shooting outside a residence in the 9700 block of Ogden Court. One person has died, and one suspect is in custody. There is no ongoing threat to the public. Please stay clear of the area while the investigation continues.

[Adams County Sheriff's Office (Colorado) @AdamsCoSheriff]

🚨 Yet Another Fraud Alert! 🚨

We want to bring yet another scam to your attention. This time, scammers are impersonating us — even spoofing our phone number: 303-654-1850.

A resident recently received this fake “warrant” along with a phone call from someone claiming to be “Sgt. Phillips” (we do not have a Sgt. Phillips). The caller demanded money to avoid arrest.

Unfortunately, the victim paid the scammers a small sum using Bitcoin. We have removed their name from this document.

⚠️ THIS IS A SCAM ⚠️

Here are several reasons this document is fake:

• There is no “Western District” for the United States District Courts. Ours is the District of Colorado.

• Federal agencies would not issue warrants through a Sheriff’s Office. Federal agencies enforce federal law, while we enforce state law.

• You wouldn't be sentenced to “Federal Probation” on a state case.

• We’re not sure what a “Violation Petition” is, but it is not a charging process we do.

• An $80,000 fine is extremely excessive for a misdemeanor offense — and likely what the scammers requested from the victim.

• Sheriff’s Deputies do not issue warrants. Judges and Magistrates issue arrest warrants.

• The document states payment must be converted into a “Federally Insured Digital Asset.” That’s just a fancy way to describe cryptocurrency. Neither our office nor the federal government will require payment in cryptocurrency.

We are committed to educating our community about scams to help prevent more victims.

If you are ever unsure whether a phone call, email, or text message is legitimately from the Sheriff’s Office, contact us directly or call non-emergency dispatch at 303-288-1535 and request to speak with us.

#Scam #AdamsCounty #LawEnforcement #ScamAlert

[FBI Denver @FBIDenver]

This man was part of a month-long metro Denver crime spree that hit convenience stores in Broomfield, Westminster, Federal Heights, Thornton, Denver & Aurora. The FBI Denver Rocky Mountain Safe Streets Task Force got the case, and now he will serve real federal time. https://t.co/DssBFiYBnF

[Thornton Police Dept @ThorntonPolice]

Those Who Serve: Emergency Communications Specialist Sellers

Dispatcher Sellers serves as a vital link between the community and first responders. Through quick decision-making, attention to detail and steady communication, she ensures officers have the information they need to respond safely and effectively.

Does this sound like a calling to you? #ThorntonPD is currently hiring dispatchers: https://t.co/o0EhofedAh

Get to know Dispatcher Sellers. 👇

What's one thing the public might not know about your job?
When you call 911 or the non-emergency line, we might also be working a radio channel(s). So, while answering calls from our citizens, we also have Police Officers, Animal Control and Firefighters talking to us at the same time.

Why did you choose to be a dispatcher?
I always knew I wanted to have a career in Law Enforcement in some way because of my dad. He has been a Police Officer my whole life, and being a proud daughter, I wanted to follow in his footsteps. I started by looking into dispatching and quickly discovered how much I loved it.

What's one of your favorite moments where you felt you made a difference?
It's truly hard to pick just one moment, but there's one that comes to mind. During a traumatic situation for the caller, I was able to quickly build a rapport with her and helped build her confidence back up so that she could get her friend the help she needed right away, while also keeping herself safe. She took a deep breath and said, "You're right, I can do this". She was able to encourage herself to keep going while keeping her composure in the midst of a devastating situation. This was a reminder that being the calm voice in moments of crisis does make a difference.

If you weren’t a dispatcher, what would you be?
Definitely a Crime Scene Investigator!