Boulder Police Blotter and Crime Data
Boulder is a vibrant city at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, home to the University of Colorado and approximately 105,000 residents. The Boulder Police Department operates from headquarters at 1805 33rd Street, providing comprehensive law enforcement services to this diverse community. Boulder combines a college town atmosphere with high-tech industry and outdoor recreation culture, creating unique public safety challenges and opportunities. The police department emphasizes data-driven policing and maintains extensive public dashboards for community access to crime statistics and incident information. Boulder residents and researchers benefit from exceptional transparency in police operations, with multiple online platforms providing real-time access to blotter information and crime data.
Crime Blotter Dashboard
The Boulder Police Department maintains a Crime Blotter dashboard that provides daily updates on significant incidents. This interactive tool allows users to search by date, location, and incident type to find specific events. The dashboard displays information about arrests, burglaries, assaults, and other notable police activity. Each entry includes basic details such as time, location, and incident classification, helping residents understand crime patterns in their neighborhoods. The Crime Blotter serves as the primary public-facing police records tool, offering immediate access to information without requiring formal records requests. The system updates regularly to reflect new incidents as they are reported and processed.
Open Data Initiative
Boulder participates in the open data movement, making police datasets available for public analysis and research. The city maintains over 14 different public safety dashboards covering various aspects of police operations and crime statistics. These interactive platforms allow users to visualize trends, compare time periods, and export data for further analysis. The dashboards cover topics including traffic accidents, emergency response times, and demographic information about police contacts. This commitment to open data distinguishes Boulder as a leader in police transparency among Colorado municipalities. Researchers, journalists, and community members can access these tools without creating accounts or paying fees.
Flock Safety Camera Network
Boulder utilizes Flock Safety automated license plate reader cameras as part of its public safety infrastructure. These cameras capture vehicle information at entry points to the city and strategic locations throughout Boulder. The system helps detect stolen vehicles, locate missing persons, and investigate criminal activity. Data from Flock cameras may be referenced in police reports and can be requested through standard records procedures. The city maintains policies governing camera placement, data retention, and access to ensure appropriate use of this technology. Information about Flock camera locations and policies is available through the police department's website and public records requests.
Records Request Procedures
For official police reports not available through online dashboards, the Boulder Police Records Unit accepts requests via phone at 303-441-3300, in person, or through written submission. The Records Unit operates during regular business hours and can provide certified copies of reports for court or insurance purposes. Processing times vary based on record complexity and current request volume. Some reports may require redaction of personal information or investigative details before release. The department follows Colorado Open Records Act requirements while balancing transparency with privacy protections and ongoing investigation needs.
University of Colorado Police Coordination
The University of Colorado Boulder maintains its own police department, creating a unique two-agency jurisdiction in the city. CU Police handle incidents on campus property while Boulder Police respond to city jurisdiction matters. The agencies coordinate closely through mutual aid agreements and shared radio systems. Researchers seeking complete information about incidents near campus should consider requesting records from both departments. The jurisdictional boundary can sometimes create complexity in record location, particularly for incidents occurring on streets or properties adjacent to campus.
Community Safety Programs
Boulder Police Department offers numerous community engagement programs complementing their transparent records practices. The department publishes neighborhood crime statistics, maintains a neighborhood watch program, and provides safety presentations to community groups. The online crime mapping tool allows residents to view recent incidents near their homes or businesses. These resources help community members stay informed about public safety issues and participate actively in crime prevention efforts. The combination of accessible data and community programs reflects Boulder's holistic approach to public safety and government transparency.