In May of 2022, the Pueblo Police Department created the Directed Investigation and Community Engagement Unit, also known as the D.I.C.E. Unit.
The D.I.C.E. unit was formed to help combat lower-level crime such as, loitering, trespass, suspicious persons, as well as work to provide resources to any homeless population they encounter. The unit started as a two-officer team that worked together to conduct proactive policing in the areas that statistically saw a higher volume of the lower level-crime. They also answered calls for service that aligned with their mission.
The positive impact the D.I.C.E Unit had was quickly noticed, therefore, the inception of the second D.I.C.E. Unit started in September of 2022. During the holiday season, both units worked closely with retail stores to prevent robberies and theft, they helped code enforcement with cleanups, and have also partnered with outside agencies to work together to combat crime.
Overall, both units generated the following combined stats for 2022.
- Recovered over $20,000 of stolen merchandise
- Wrote 265 citations
- Made 215 warrant arrests
- Contacted over 1,600 people
- Initiated over 40 Community Oriented Policing Calls
Both units are still working hard in 2023 as they have already recovered over $14,000 in stolen merchandise, contacted over 400 people, and have made 95 warrant arrests.
These units have made a positive impact on our community and we are excited to continue to highlight their work along with the rest of the great officers at the Pueblo Police Department.
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