CDOT Selects Deputy Mark George as 2015 Drug Recognition Expert Award Recipient

The award is presented annually to the law enforcement officer who exemplifies passion and dedication to the Colorado Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) Program.

“Deputy George was one of the pioneers of the DRE program in Colorado and nationally,” said Glenn Davis, Highway Safety Manager at CDOT.  “Deputy George’s involvement in combating drugged driving, especially his work on enforcement and training, has contributed greatly to making Colorado roadways safer.”

“Deputy George has been instrumental in the success of our DRE program not only in Boulder County but statewide,” said Sheriff Joe Pelle. “The Sheriff’s Office has been proud to allow Mark to teach and educate officers across the state.”

The award’s namesake, Lieutenant Jim Williamson of the Littleton Police Department, passed away in 2014.  He was a champion of the DRE program and helped lead the success of the program.

The Colorado DRE program began in 1987.  It trains law enforcement officers to recognize impairment in drivers under the influence of drugs other than, or in addition to, alcohol. As of 2015, 575 Colorado law enforcement officers have completed DRE training and there are currently 212 active DREs in the state. The Colorado State Patrol has 64 DREs, the most of any law enforcement agency in the state.

This is a timely award given Deputy George’s impending retirement after 30 years with the Boulder Sheriff.