Today, El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal administered the Oath of Office to 33 newly certified Class I Colorado Peace Officers during the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Regional Training Academy Class 26-1 Graduation Ceremony at New Life Church in Colorado Springs.
The graduates completed an intensive 20-week academy designed to prepare recruits for the challenges and responsibilities of modern law enforcement. Recruit Class 26-1 began training on January 20, 2026, and now joins agencies across Colorado ready to serve their communities with professionalism, integrity, and dedication.
The graduating class includes officers and deputies from multiple agencies throughout the state:
- 26 will serve with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office
• 2 will serve with the Teller County Sheriff’s Office
• 1 will serve with the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office
• 1 will serve with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office
• 2 will serve with the Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office
• 1 will serve with Colorado State Parole
This graduation marks the tenth class to complete the updated Colorado POST certification program since Sheriff Roybal took office in January 2023. The continued success of the Regional Training Academy reflects strong partnerships among participating agencies and a shared commitment to developing highly qualified peace officers.
“Today marks the beginning of a noble profession for 33 newly certified peace officers who have earned the privilege of serving their communities,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “Over the past 20 weeks, these recruits demonstrated resilience, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public service. I am also grateful to Sheriffs Mikesell, Speckman, Cooper, and Thornton, and to Director Bess, for entrusting our academy with the training and development of their recruits. Their confidence in our program is a responsibility we take very seriously.
“As you take your oath and pin on the badge, remember what it represents. It is a commitment to uphold the Constitution, protect others’ rights, and serve with integrity in every interaction. Communities will look to you during moments of crisis, uncertainty, and need. Your ability to lead with courage, compassion, and sound judgment will make a lasting difference.
“The badge connects you to a proud tradition of service and sacrifice carried forward by generations of peace officers. From this day forward, you carry both the trust of your community and the responsibility to honor that legacy.
“Congratulations, Recruit Class 26-1. Your hard work has brought you to this moment, and your service begins today. Welcome to the peacekeeper family.”
The next POST-certified class from the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Regional Training Academy is scheduled to graduate in October 2026 and will include recruits from agencies across Colorado.
Individuals interested in a career with the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office can learn more at www.joinepso.com.
