In response to the anticipated budget cuts faced by the Denver Police Department, the Laramie County Sheriff's Office in Wyoming has taken a proactive approach to attract law enforcement officers from Colorado. The sheriff, Brian Kozak, recently unveiled a billboard in downtown Denver proclaiming the advantages of working in Wyoming, where law enforcement is funded and breaking the law is still illegal.

Kozak revealed that his office has been actively targeting recruits from Colorado for over a year, employing various digital advertising strategies such as social media and digital TV. The efforts have proven successful, as they managed to hire 72 individuals from the area in just one year.

The sheriff's recruitment campaign goes beyond simply targeting Colorado law enforcement officers. Kozak has been crafting marketable messages that appeal to potential candidates, highlighting Wyoming as a supportive community for law enforcement and an area renowned for its conservative values and access to outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and hunting.

Speaking about the motivation behind recruiting from Denver, Kozak stated that many officers in the area feel frustrated by the restrictions placed on their ability to perform their duties. With a focus on attracting candidates who value autonomy and support, the Laramie County Sheriff's Office hopes to appeal to officers seeking a change in work environment.

In response to concerns about Denver's budget cuts, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston clarified that the reductions mainly affect capital spending, such as delaying furniture purchases and adjusting funding sources for one cadet class. He emphasized that the cuts would not impact the department's provision of public-facing services.

Meanwhile, the proposed budget cuts for the Denver Police Department, as well as the sheriff's office and fire department, are intended to fund an $89.9 million program aimed at supporting migrant aid. The program will provide various services, including housing, case management, workforce training, and transportation.

While acknowledging the pay difference between Denver and Wyoming, the Denver Police Department highlighted the advantages it offers officers, such as higher salaries and opportunities for secondary employment, such as providing security at sports events. The department also pointed out its larger size and greater promotional opportunities compared to the Laramie County Sheriff's Office.

A recent WalletHub study ranked Colorado as the fifth-best state and Wyoming as the 24th-best state for law enforcement officers based on various factors like opportunity, training requirements, and job hazards and protection.

Currently, the Laramie County Sheriff's Office has eight patrol positions and 17 detention openings. Kozak expressed optimism about reducing the office's overtime expenses by attracting more recruits, with the billboard rental being just one step in their marketing investments. The advertisement, located at 1381 W. Alameda Ave., cost $2,500 for a 30-day rental.

With the billboard already generating significant media coverage and receiving 20 to 40 responses per day from interested candidates, Kozak believes that the investment has been well worth the money. The office has allocated approximately $40,000 for advertising in the fiscal year.

As the recruitment efforts continue, the Laramie County Sheriff's Office remains committed to attracting dedicated and motivated law enforcement officers to ensure the safety and security of Wyoming communities.