Ryan Sanderson Recognized as 2024 Telecommunicator of the Year

Ryan Sanderson works for the Colorado Springs Police Department Communications Center. Here is an excerpt from his nomination letter.

“{in December 2023}, PSD Sanderson received more than a dozen shooting calls at the Citadel Mall. Upon officers arriving on scene, it was discovered there were multiple suspects and multiple victims who were shot. Officers began a search for the suspects. Officer Wolf called out solo with two suspects matching descriptions and needed cover quickly. PSD Sanderson immediately worked to get him cover. Shortly after, another officer called out in a foot pursuit of a suspect running west through the parking lot. PSD Sanderson actively worked to get cover officers to assist those in pursuit. Officers contacted the suspect running on foot and immediately took him into custody. PSD Sanderson managed more than 40 CSPD officers from all four police divisions, multiple deputies from the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, and troopers from the Colorado State Patrol during the initial response.
While conducting sweeps of the mall, officers continued to find additional victims, one with multiple gunshot wounds. Several officers called out with uncooperative parties on the scene. PSD Sanderson did an amazing job ensuring all law enforcement officers on scene were safe and were provided with cover units. PSD Sanderson was diligent in obtaining information about code words or safety words to contact employees still inside the mall.
During the investigation, it was discovered there were 3 shooting victims on the scene, as well as a couple more who had already been taken to the hospital. PSD Sanderson did a phenomenal job coordinating medical resources to where they were needed at the scene. He ensured everyone who needed medical care received it. Officers took all suspects involved in the incident into custody, ensuring no additional threat to the community.”

Ryan, thank you for everything you do for your community. Congratulations on this well deserved award.