Former RTD police chief ‘terminated for cause,’ database says

DENVER ( KDVR ) — FOX31 has learned the Regional Transportation District’s chief of police was “terminated for cause.”

On Sept. 20, RTD said Joel Fitzgerald was no longer an employee of the organization, but little information was released on his departure. Fitzgerald had previously been on leave since the start of July.

At the time of Fitzgerald’s departure, RTD did not say in what manner he left. However, the Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training website — which shows the status of employment for peace officers — said Fitzgerald was terminated for cause. RTD has not commented on the details of that cause.

Following Fitzgerald’s departure, RTD released the following statement.

“RTD thanks Dr. Fitzgerald for his service to the agency’s employees, customers, and stakeholders over the last two years. In the coming days, RTD will announce plans for interim leadership in the Transit Police and Emergency Management Department,” said RTD.

Fitzgerald was named chief in 2022 .

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