By Mark Michalek

As the year comes to a close, Coloradans are reflecting on what has changed, what has endured and what still demands our attention. Public safety remains among the most important responsibilities of government. Violent crime, drug trafficking, child exploitation, fraud and cybercrime continue to threaten communities across our state. Meeting those challenges requires steady leadership, measurable results, and partnerships grounded in trust. 

During the past year, the FBI Denver Field Office worked alongside state and local law enforcement, prosecutors and community partners with a shared purpose: to reduce violence, disrupt criminal networks, protect the vulnerable and uphold the rule of law. The progress made this year offers a clear picture of what is possible when agencies and communities work together. 

One of the most visible efforts was our participation in Operation Summer Heat, a nationwide initiative focused on violent crime and gang activity. In Colorado, a concentrated five-week operation in Pueblo resulted in 20 arrests and the removal of significant quantities of dangerous drugs from circulation. That work was reinforced by sustained violent crime suppression efforts throughout the year. In total, these operations led to more than 430 arrests statewide, the seizure of more than 200 firearms from criminals and the removal of more than 1,400 pounds of methamphetamine and 80 pounds of fentanyl. These numbers represent disrupted criminal networks, lives potentially saved and safer neighborhoods.

This year also underscored public safety includes responding decisively to acts of violence intended to intimidate and divide communities. Following the June 1 attack outside the Boulder County Courthouse, the FBI worked closely with the Boulder Police Department to investigate a hate-motivated assault targeting a peaceful gathering. In addition to state charges, the defendant now faces 12 federal hate crime counts. Investigators relied on physical evidence, digital analysis and witness accounts to rapidly identify motive, secure charges and protect the public. The case reinforced the need to confront extremism-driven violence swiftly and with unwavering resolve.

The importance of multiagency coordination was also evident in the response to the Evergreen High School shooting. In close partnership with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and other first responders, the FBI provided immediate investigative, tactical and technical support, including evidence processing, behavioral threat assessment and digital analysis. Law enforcement quickly identified the suspect, secured the scene and determined there was no broader threat. Behind that speed was disciplined information-sharing and cam decision-making under intense public scrutiny. When schools and children are involved, accuracy matters as much as urgency. 

Public trust also proved critical in bringing accountability in a 2023 Denver homicide. Nearly two years after a fatal shooting at a Denver bar, the FBI and the Denver Police Department announced a $10,000 reward for information. A member of the public recognized the suspect from the news coverage and came forward. Within 36 hours, FBI special agents and Denver police officers located and arrested Matthew LaDaniel Johnson. That arrest reflected the power of partnership —– grieving families who spoke out, law enforcement that coordinated closely and a citizen who chose to act. When the public and law enforcement work together, justice moves forward.

Technology remained an essential tool in modern policing throughout the year, but one that must be used responsibly. The FBI employs technology lawfully, with judicial oversight, and only in predicated investigations. Digital forensics, geolocation analysis and video exploitation help investigators follow evidence and prevent future violence while protecting the constitutional rights that define our democracy. Technology does not replace human judgement; it sharpens it.

Protecting children remained a constant priority. Through our Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Task Force, investigators pursued offenders who exploit minors or abuse positions of trust. These cases are complex and emotionally difficult, but they reflect a clear principle: There is zero tolerance for those who harm children, and no expiration date on justice.

Colorado also experienced a continued rise in fraud and cyber-enabled crime. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, Coloradans report hundreds of millions of dollars in losses each year. Working closely with prosecutors and private-sector partners, the FBI disrupted criminal infrastructure, secured convictions and helped victims recover stolen funds. 

As this year draws to a close and we look forward, one lesson stands out: Public safety is not built by any single agency acting alone. It is built through trust — between law enforcement agencies, between government and communities and between investigators and citizens will to step forward. Colorado enters 2026 on stronger footing because of these partnerships. When we work together with purpose and integrity, we protect our communities and the values that bind us together.

Mark Michalek was special agent in charge of the FBI Denver Field Office until Nov. 1, when he was promoted to be one of the FBI’s operations directors.