There is a new traffic deputy in town
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) Deputy Cordell Dugan has a new beat—traffic deputy for the City of Castle Pines (City). Not having a police force of its own, the City contracts with DCSO for law enforcement services. Of the nine DCSO deputies assigned to patrol here, Dugan is the only one to specifically handle traffic.
Dugan has been with DCSO since 2020, with three years of that time on patrol. Previously, Dugan primarily worked in rural districts in the southeast part of the county. He explained that while working patrol in and around Franktown, “I developed a love for traffic safety and crash investigation.”
Wanting to challenge himself in more of a city setting, he asked about the City’s position. He wanted the opportunity to get to know the residents in his district so he can better serve them; our community is still small enough to do that.
In late 2023, Dugan applied for the DCSO Traffic Unit and has worked traffic since then.
The variety of work that patrol and traffic units provide is particularly appealing to Dugan. “I love that each day is different. I like being out and about, driving around and seeing this beautiful county,” he said.
In his tenure, most people Dugan encounters have had no experience with car crashes. “It’s nice to be the one to help them through that,” he explained.
Dugan’s days could include violation enforcement, DUI enforcement, crash investigation, education and traffic safety promotions. However, the variability can also be challenging, especially when working hours are unpredictable.
As a kid, Dugan gravitated to toy police cars and police roles in video games. He knew as a teenager that he wanted a career in law enforcement, and becoming a sheriff’s deputy was always the plan. The high school aptitude tests always indicated law enforcement was a good fit for him.
As a native growing up in El Paso County, Dugan stayed in state for college, graduating from Colorado Mesa University with a degree in criminal justice.
When not working, Dugan relishes time with his wife and two children. In the little free time Dugan has, he is probably car tinkering, building Legos, reading, taking pictures, playing video games, enjoying the outdoors, fishing or doing yard work.
Douglas County Sheriff Office participated in the Children’s Hospital Colorado’s holiday parade in mid-December at the Highlands Ranch campus. Deputies Erdle and Dugan are pictured with Miles, Denver Broncos mascot. Deputy Dugan was this year’s parade escort.
Deputy Cordell Dugan meets with Castle Rock kids at the Dads of Castle Rock annual lemonade stands. He relishes connection and positive interactions with citizens of all ages.
By Celeste McNeil; photos courtesy of Cordell Dugan
