It’s with great sadness the Brighton Police Department announces the passing of Commander Frank Acosta. Commander Acosta joined Brighton Police in February of 2000 after working more than eight years as a State Trooper for the Colorado State Patrol. Commander Acosta died of natural causes. 

Commander Acosta worked as a patrol officer, a detective for the North Metro Drug Task Force, Patrol Sergeant, Investigations Sergeant, Investigations Commander and most recently as Commander of the Professional Services Unit. Commander Acosta was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in the 82nd Airborne stationed out of Fort Bragg.

Commander Acosta earned a master's degree in organizational leadership from Regis University and a bachelor's degree in management from National American University.

“This is a horrible loss and we all feel the pain,” said Brighton Police Chief Paul Southard. “Commander Acosta was such a bright light loved by all in our department. He served our community with such dedication over the past 22 years and we are forever grateful for his commitment.”

Commander Acosta is survived by his parents, his wife Kandy, 10 children, nine grandchildren and one great grandchild.