Curtis Johnson wins Boulder County sheriff's Democratic primary

Mitchell Byars, Daily Camera, Boulder, Colo.
·2 min read

Jun. 30—Curtis Johnson has won the Democratic nomination for Boulder County sheriff, and, barring a surprise entry in the general election, will be the first new sheriff for the county in 20 years.

Johnson, a division chief with the Boulder County Sheriff's Office, extended his lead over Louisville police Chief David Hayes to more than 20,000 votes after the latest results were released by the Boulder County Clerk and Recorder's Office on Wednesday.

Johnson led 71.12% to 28.88%, with 36,691 votes to Hayes' 14,898, leading the Daily Camera to call the race in favor of Johnson.

With no Republican challenger, it is likely Johnson will run unopposed in November to succeed Sheriff Joe Pelle, who is term-limited after 20 years as sheriff.

Johnson did not offer further comment Wednesday, but said on Tuesday, "I feel great. I am just grateful that all the hard work has paid off. I'm honored to see all the support across the county, and I'm really excited to be the next sheriff in Boulder County."

Johnson served in numerous roles in his almost 30 years with the Boulder Police Department before joining the sheriff's office in 2021 as the division chief overseeing support service.

Hayes in comments Tuesday night said he was holding out hope of a comeback despite trailing by about 18,000 votes. But in an email Wednesday night, Hayes said he had called Johnson to concede.

"Good evening to my family, friends and supporters: While the votes are still being tallied, it appears as if my opponent, Curt Johnson, will win the primary election," Hayes said in a statement. "I had the opportunity to speak with Curt this evening and offer him my congratulations."

"I will of course continue to serve the Louisville community as police chief, and alongside my staff and officers will continue to enhance public safety and quality of life in our community. I am committed to pursuing the changes needed to protect our community in the event of future disasters."

Hayes noted he will also be sworn in as president of the Colorado Association of Chiefs of Police in July.

"I remain committed to public safety and service and I also want to thank all of you for your continued support."