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Berthoud Today
By the People, for the People
Ride-Along Reveals Berthoud's Finest in Action
A firsthand look at law enforcement, from high-speed pursuits to community-focused policing
Mar. 21, 2026 at 6:20am
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A reporter joins Larimer County Sheriff's Deputy Carlos Viruet-Reyes for a ride-along in Berthoud, Colorado, experiencing everything from responding to a stolen vehicle alert to witnessing the booking process at the county jail. The deputy's dedication to public safety and community policing is highlighted throughout the day.
Why it matters
This story provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the daily realities and challenges faced by local law enforcement, offering readers a deeper understanding of the role police play in keeping communities safe.
The details
During the ride-along, Deputy Viruet-Reyes responds to a stolen vehicle alert, engaging in a high-speed pursuit before ultimately losing the suspect. The deputy explains that these pursuits are about more than just a stolen car, as they often lead to the closure of other cases. The reporter also observes the deputy's careful approach to navigating traffic and prioritizing public safety during the chase. Later, the deputy assists another officer with a traffic stop, demonstrating a 'fatherly' approach to law enforcement focused on modifying behavior rather than punishment.
- On Groundhog Day, the reporter joined Deputy Viruet-Reyes for a ride-along.
- Last year, the Berthoud squad cracked a series of burglaries in the Prairie Star development.
The players
Deputy Carlos Viruet-Reyes
A U.S. Navy veteran and nurse by training who joined the Larimer County Sheriff's Office in 2021, demonstrating a dedication to public service and community policing.
Deputy Jason Hart
A Larimer County Sheriff's traffic safety deputy who takes shifts on holidays to maintain traffic safety, and trains new deputies to treat people with the same care they would their own family and friends.
Larimer County Sheriff's Office
The law enforcement agency serving Berthoud and the surrounding Larimer County, Colorado, utilizing resources like automatic license plate readers to aid in investigations.
What they’re saying
“Any call where you can reward yourself with the thought that this person is no longer going to be a victim—or a case you can crack.”
— Deputy Carlos Viruet-Reyes
“If I can serenade you to jail, I will.”
— Deputy Carlos Viruet-Reyes
“We really try to give a really good service. We feel like we have a really strong bond with the community.”
— Deputy Carlos Viruet-Reyes
What’s next
The reporter notes that the judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the suspect arrested during the ride-along to be released on bail.
The takeaway
This story highlights the dedication and community-focused approach of Berthoud's law enforcement, from utilizing advanced technology to prioritizing public safety during high-speed pursuits to fostering positive relationships with residents. It offers readers a rare glimpse into the daily realities faced by local police.
