JEFFERSON COUNTY, Colo. — A Jefferson County sergeant, who was part of the SWAT team responding to a school shooting at Evergreen High School, is under investigation for allegedly being under the influence of alcohol during the incident.
The event, which took place on September 10, saw two students critically injured and the 16-year-old suspect dying from self-inflicted injuries.
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On the morning of the incident, law enforcement officers were called to Evergreen High School following reports of an “active assailant.” As the situation unfolded, it became apparent that the SWAT team leader, Sgt. Anthony Hamilton, arrived at the scene off duty and impaired. According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), Hamilton admitted to internal affairs that he had consumed most of a 12-pack of beer earlier that morning, reports Denver7.
Before Evergreen High School Shooting, Jeffco Sergeant Consumed Several Beers
The investigation revealed that Hamilton began drinking soon after waking up and had his last drink around 11:00 a.m., just an hour or two before responding to the shooting at Evergreen High School.
Despite being on leave for personal reasons, Hamilton chose to respond to the shooting due to its severity, recognizing his team’s need for assistance.
The commander, who was surprised by Hamilton’s presence, noted that Hamilton had recently requested time off. During the response, several officers found Hamilton’s behavior unusual, with some noting a smell of alcohol masked by coffee. The officers also described Hamilton as having bloodshot eyes and being “quiet,” “distant,” and “acting out of the norm.”
Legal and Ethical Consequences and Implications
As the investigation progressed, Hamilton was suspended from his duties with the SWAT team and placed on administrative leave. He later resigned from his position after the completion of the internal investigation, choosing resignation over termination.
This isn’t Hamilton’s first alcohol-related incident; records indicate he was previously suspended for two days in February 2024 for drinking alcohol on precinct property, reports 9News.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office addressed the situation by stating, “The Evergreen High School shooting was a tragic event for our community, and we are proud of the professionalism and dedication shown by the deputies and partner agencies who responded that day… This conduct falls far outside the standards and expectations of the Sheriff’s Office.”
