Former Denver-Area Police Officer Indicted for Sex Crimes

Charges stem from January incident, leading to officer's resignation

Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:07pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or handcuffs, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, investigative mood without words.The indictment of a former police officer on sex crime charges raises serious concerns about abuse of power and the need for strong accountability measures within law enforcement.Parker Today

A former police sergeant in the Denver metro area has been indicted on multiple sex crime charges, including two counts of unlawful sexual conduct by a peace officer, one count of unlawful sexual contact, and four counts of official misconduct. The charges stem from an incident on January 7, after which the officer was placed on administrative leave and later resigned from the Parker Police Department.

Why it matters

The indictment of a former police officer on sex crime charges raises serious concerns about abuse of power and the need for strong accountability measures within law enforcement agencies. Public trust in the police can be significantly eroded by such incidents, underscoring the importance of thorough investigations and appropriate disciplinary actions.

The details

According to the Parker Police Department, former Sgt. Troy Brienzo has been formally charged with the crimes. The investigation was turned over to an outside agency, which filed the case with the 23rd Judicial District Attorney's Office. A grand jury returned the indictment on April 3. Brienzo resigned from his position on February 13.

  • The alleged incidents occurred on January 7.
  • Brienzo was placed on administrative leave after the January 7 incident.
  • Brienzo resigned from the Parker Police Department on February 13.
  • The case was filed with the 23rd Judicial District Attorney's Office.
  • A grand jury returned the indictment on April 3.

The players

Troy Brienzo

A former police sergeant with the Parker Police Department who has been indicted on multiple sex crime charges.

Parker Police Department

The law enforcement agency where Brienzo was previously employed, and which is cooperating with the investigation.

23rd Judicial District Attorney's Office

The prosecutorial agency that filed the case against Brienzo following the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“We recognize the seriousness of these charges and remain committed to transparency, accountability and maintaining the trust of the Parker community. As this is now an active criminal case, no further details will be released at this time.”

— Parker Police Department

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Brienzo's bail status at a hearing on April 15.

The takeaway

This case highlights the critical need for robust oversight and accountability measures within law enforcement agencies to prevent and address abuse of power, particularly in the area of sex crimes. The indictment underscores the importance of thorough investigations and appropriate disciplinary actions to maintain public trust in the police.