Suspect Charged with Attempted Murder of a Police Officer

Boulder police officer recovering after violent attack during call for service

Feb. 28, 2026 at 4:47am

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A 45-year-old man has been charged with attempted murder and other serious crimes after allegedly attacking a Boulder police officer responding to a call about a man threatening another person and possibly possessing a gun. The officer was knocked unconscious and suffered a concussion, torn ACL, and bruises before other officers arrived and tased the suspect, taking him into custody.

Why it matters

Attacks on law enforcement officers are a serious concern, as they highlight the risks and unpredictability officers face while serving the community. This incident raises questions about officer safety protocols, de-escalation training, and the need for robust mental health resources to prevent such violent outbursts.

The details

According to police, officers responded to a call about a man threatening another person and possibly having a gun at an apartment complex. When the first officer arrived, the suspect, identified as Justin Lyle Radley-Sharpe, began to walk away and refused to follow the officer's commands. A struggle ensued, during which the officer was knocked unconscious after his head hit a rock. Radley-Sharpe then allegedly punched the officer twice in the head and began choking him before other officers arrived, tased the suspect, and took him into custody.

  • The incident occurred just after 5 p.m. on February 9, 2026.
  • The officer, who has been on the force for nearly 8 years, is now recovering at home with a torn ACL, bruises, and a concussion.

The players

Justin Lyle Radley-Sharpe

A 45-year-old man who has been charged with two counts of criminal attempt to commit murder in the first degree, two counts of crime of violence, first-degree assault, three counts of second-degree assault, menacing, harassment, obstructing a peace officer, and resisting arrest.

Steve Redfearn

The Boulder Police Chief, who praised the quick response of the other officers and dispatchers who helped apprehend the suspect and provide medical aid to the injured officer.

Michael Dougherty

The Boulder County District Attorney, who stated that acts of violence against law enforcement are unacceptable and that the attempted murder case will be prosecuted to the full extent.

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What they’re saying

“Crimes like this show exactly how quickly and unpredictably calls for service can evolve and highlight the risks our officers face each day while keeping our community safe.”

— Steve Redfearn, Boulder Police Chief

“I want to recognize the Boulder Police Department for their quick and courageous response to this call of threats and a possible gun. It became an incredibly serious attack on a police officer. I commend the other officers who quickly came to his aid and kept this incident from ending even worse.”

— Michael Dougherty, Boulder County District Attorney

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the suspect, Justin Lyle Radley-Sharpe, to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the dangers that police officers face in the line of duty and the need for continued training, resources, and community support to ensure their safety while protecting the public.