Chief of Police Michael Cochran was recently awarded a Law Enforcement Executive Certification from the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police.

Certification from the association is acquired through a combination of factors relating to law enforcement experience, academic achievement and continuing education and leadership.

Cochran was formally recognized for his achievement at a Craig City Council meeting on Oct. 10.

Craig City Manager Pete Brixius shared that Cochran was being recognized “for his stellar career in law enforcement, and especially his successful tenure as the City of Craig’s chief of police over the past couple of years.”

Cochran previously served as part of both the Craig Police Department and Moffat County Sheriff’s Office before being sworn in as Chief of Police on Nov. 22, 2021.

Brixius went on to commend Cochran for “not only his depth of his experience in law enforcement and education, but for his work in developing the Craig police department.”

Following a 2021 evaluation of the department, Cochran was tasked with several challenges, including developing recruitment strategies, boosting morale, incorporating mission, vision and value statements and department goals, addressing patrol operations and developing crisis negotiation and a S.W.A.T.-trained force.

Brixius also commended Cochran for developing a “uniform uniform policy” and for his “disciplined use of new technology” in the department.

In addition to overseeing the budget and officer training, Cochran also bolstered community outreach opportunities, which Brixius called a “critical component of any police department.”

After being congratulated on his recognization by Brixius and Craig Mayor Derek Duran, Cochran received thanks from council member Vicki Huyser, who told him that Craig “has an excellent police department now, under (his command).”