DPD Officers Receive Award for Compassion and Generosity

DPD Officers Receive Award for Compassion and Generosity

Published on August 12, 2026

Denver - Wednesday, August 12, 2026 - Today, the nonprofit organization Citizens Appreciate Police (CAP) recognized six Denver Police officers who demonstrated extraordinary kindness and generosity to those in our community. Formed in 1978 by Mayor Bill McNichols and District Attorney Dale Tooley, CAP is a nonprofit organization which recognizes Denver Police officers who serve the public above the regular call of duty. Since its inception, more than 550 officers have received the CAP award and pin, which is the only civilian award allowed on the officers' uniforms.

"The officers' kind and generous acts that were shared today, are just a few of the many examples where Denver Police officers have gone above and beyond in their service to our community. It's important to the CAP Board to recognize and honor Denver officers who protect and serve our community, while bringing to light the caring nature and professionalism through the examples shared today, as officers go about their day-to-day duties," CAP Board Co-President Christie Mochoruk.

"The Denver Police Department and I are incredibly proud of these officers for their commitment to our community," said Denver Chief of Police Ron Thomas. "These acts of kindness and generosity during stressful calls do not go unseen and demonstrate our commitment to help and support our community. We are grateful to the Citizens Appreciate Police Board for taking the time to recognize these officers and their love for the community they serve."

Officer Jesus Hernandez and Officer Steven de Mata:

Denver Police Officers Hernandez and de Mata responded to a possible law violation at a residence in Denver Police District Two. When they arrived on scene, they assisted a man with his reported concern and the officers learned that he was the father of five young children and had recently lost his job. The two officers took it upon themselves to learn more about his situation and asked if they could check in on his children. The officers learned that the man had full custody of the kids, whose ages ranged from three to eight. They were all in good spirits despite a nearly empty fridge and pantry.

The responding officers were moved by the father's commitment to his children and their well-being. Officer Hernandez and Officer de Mata gathered a list of food the family liked to eat, went to a nearby grocery store, and purchased groceries for the family. They wanted to ensure the children had what they needed in the days ahead. The father shared that he had never expected this level of compassion when calling the police and expressed deep gratitude for the officers' kindness.

Technician Monique Cabrera:

Technician Cabrera learned that a senior community leader, whom she has worked alongside for many years in her community engagement work, had a close family member who suffered a devastating medical emergency. Technician Cabrera reached out immediately and asked if the family needed anything. Due to this community member needing to be at their family member's bedside, they were unable to get to the grocery store for food. Technician Cabrera took it upon herself to get a list of the needed groceries, paid for them with her own funds, and delivered the groceries to the family's home. The community leader offered to pay for them items, but Technician Cabrera did not accept. When Technician Cabrera was asked by her supervisor about providing the groceries, she related that she did not want any acknowledgment, stating further that she loves her community and the opportunity she has in her position to have a positive impact.

Officer Andrew Ohlen and Officer Cory Kreutzer:

Officers Ohlen and Kreutzer received an outside agency request for assistance while on duty. The officers were asked to help locate two missing juveniles with developmental disabilities, who had possibly crossed into the Denver area. Both officers immediately responded with their willingness to assist with this request. The officers used their keen senses to expand the identified search area. This proactive thought process led officers to an area not previously considered by the responding officers. Officers Ohlen and Kreutzer located both juveniles walking along the highway, placing them in a highly dangerous situation due to the traffic. The juveniles were initially uncooperative, but Officers Ohlen and Kreutzer demonstrated patience, empathy, and effective communication - building rapport and gaining their trust.

Through this approach, officers were able to safely persuade both juveniles to enter their patrol vehicle, and then the officers further demonstrated care and consideration by purchasing food for the juveniles, helping to de-escalate the situation and ensure their cooperation. Both juveniles were returned safely home. The outside agency followed up with the officers' supervisor and shared that Officer Ohlen's and Officer Kreutzer's efforts were exceptional.

Officer Lauren Flores:

Officer Lauren Flores responded to a two-vehicle crash in Denver Police District Five. One of the vehicles was occupied by a single mother and her two teenage daughters. While investigating the scene, Officer Flores invited the family to sit in her patrol car with her to remain safely out of traffic. Officer Flores quickly built a rapport with the family and learned about their current situation and struggles with housing. After spending some time with this family, and learning their vehicle was no longer operable, Officer Flores took the family to a nearby restaurant for lunch. After they ate, Officer Flores provided information on additional resources for the family before leaving the restaurant.

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