Anderson is new Alamosa police chief

Kenneth Anderson, who has been serving as interim chief since Duane Oakes moved away this summer, has been named the new Alamosa police chief./Courtesy photo

ALAMOSA — The City of Alamosa is excited to announce the appointment of Kenneth Anderson as Chief of Police.

Chief Anderson brings 18 years of law enforcement experience, all while serving with the Alamosa Police Department. With the departure of Duane Oakes, Anderson was selected to serve as Interim Chief and will now be assuming the role officially. City Manager, Heather Brooks said, “Chief Anderson has dedicated his career to serving the Alamosa community and the San Luis Valley. He brings high professional standards and a commitment to service that we value in all leaders and I look forward to seeing his impact as chief.”

Through his career, Anderson has been involved in SWAT operations with the D.E.A, U.S. Marshalls, and the Colorado Bureau of Investigations with drug and homicide investigations where numerous arrests were made. Anderson has obtained the Leadership Trilogy from F.B.I., LEEDA and Leadership in Police Operations as well as certificates specific to training officers and instructing police cadets in the Trinidad State Junior College Police Academy. These trainings and experiences have allowed Anderson to grow as a supervisor, trainer and police administrator.

Most recently, Chief Anderson served as Captain at the Alamosa Police Department where his responsibilities included supervision of sergeants, oversight of the School Resource program, and service as S.W.A.T. Commander. Chief Anderson was instrumental in the implementation of the LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion) Program.

The city was fortunate to receive 13 applications for the chief vacancy and from those selected four finalists for interviews, department interaction, and assessments.

Chief Anderson said, “I am very excited for this opportunity that the City of Alamosa is providing. I look forward to working closely with all members of the Alamosa Police Department and building a stronger relationship with our community and partners. I have devoted my law enforcement career to the Alamosa Police Department and cannot wait to start this next chapter.”