In honor of National School Resource Officer Appreciation Day (Feb. 15), Elizabeth School District wanted to help the community get to know the diligent, hardworking and greatly appreciated Elizabeth police officers who serve as SROs for our schools: Steven Herbel and Cameron Sage. Following are Q&As with Officers Herbel (at left) and Officer Sage (at right):
Officer Steven Herbel
Favorite subject/activity/sport in school:
My favorite sport in high school was Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. I never competed but did it for about five years. In middle school, I loved playing video games such as “Call of Duty” and “Forza.”
Path to law enforcement:
My path to law enforcement started when I was studying finance in Kansas. I did not like studying business but I had always wanted to be a Police Officer. I attended Community College of Aurora’s Police Academy in 2019 and applied to Elizabeth Police Department. It has been an incredible journey since I began, and every day is different. I have not looked back once, and I am confident this is a better fit for me.
Why did you want to become a police officer?
I wanted to be in law enforcement for many reasons. I have family members that work in law enforcement; I like a fast-paced and busy workday; I love talking to people; and I wanted every day to be new and exciting.
What does being a School Resource Officer mean to you?
Being a School Resource Officer (SRO) to me means you are the liaison from schools to law enforcement. I believe it is a common misconception that my primary role is to get kids in trouble, but that could not be further from the truth. My primary goal is to keep kids out of trouble. I often provide a law enforcement perspective on school administrative tasks such as counseling, school safety, etc. Being an SRO is both challenging and exciting for me because every day is vastly different, and I never know what to expect.
Best part of being in schools on a daily basis?
The best part of being in the schools for me is working with school staff and students on a variety of topics. Whether it is working with the student council on a project to playing four-square at lunch, I get to form a partnership with students. I also work with school administration on a daily basis with a variety of situations, and without them, my job would be impossible.
Favorite movie and TV show:
My favorite movie is probably “American Sniper,” but I like any movie really as I worked at a movie theater in high school. My favorite TV show is South Park since it is so creative.
Hip-hop, rock or country?
My favorite music genre is hard to pinpoint. I can say some of my favorite artists are Morgan Wallen, JUICEWRLD, Suicide Boys, Chris Stapleton, Drake, Eminem, Pop-Smoke, and the Weeknd.
Most unique thing that has happened to you as a police officer:
The most unique thing that has happened to me as a Police Officer is watching the EPD student academy grow. About three years ago, we had approximately 12 students graduate and at the last Student Academy we had just under 40 graduates. The program itself also has grown to include bigger activities for the students such as touring the state capitol, visiting the Colorado State Patrol Museum, and watching every course grow and expand from the last year. Also, I have enjoyed connecting with the community through a variety of events to include the Elizabeth Farmers Markets, Elizabash, Mayor’s Tree Lighting, etc.
Officer Cameron Sage
Favorite subject/activity/sport in school:
Favorite subject: History; Sports: Golf, bowling, lacrosse and baseball.
Path to law enforcement:
I first joined the Colorado Army National Guard at 17 years old. After basic training and advanced individual training (AIT) I went to Metro State to study Criminal Justice. When I turned 21, I joined the Red Rocks Community College Law Enforcement Academy and received my POST certification. I was hired as a Police Officer with Elizabeth Police Department in February 2020.
Why did you want to become a police officer?
My grandfather was an FBI agent, and my uncle is a Police Officer in the Denver Metro area. I grew up in a military and police family. I wanted a career where every day is something different.
What does being a School Resource Officer mean to you?
What being an SRO means to me is being a mentor and also a Law Enforcement Officer.
Best part of being in schools on a daily basis?
I like being able to make lasting relationships with school staff and students.
Favorite movie and TV show:
Favorite movie: Happy Gilmore; TV show: Yellowstone
Hip-hop, rock or country?
Country for sure!
Most unique thing that has happened to you as a police officer:
In January of 2022, I was able to save a person’s life who overdosed on fentanyl by giving the individual multiple Narcan doses.
