GOLDEN, Colo. (Apr. 12, 2024) – Eduardo Armando Romero was given the maximum sentence today of 12 years in prison for killing Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) K-9 Graffit and other related crimes from the February 2023 incident. Romero pleaded guilty earlier this year and, as a result, faced 8-12 years in prison.
On Feb. 22, 2024, Romero pleaded guilty to the following charges:
COUNT 1: AGGRAVATED CRUELTY TO ANIMALS, C.R.S. 18-9-202(1.5)(b) (F6)
Sentence: 18 Months DOC
COUNT 2: IDENTITY THEFT, C.R.S. 18-5-902(1)(a) (F4)
Sentence: 12 years DOC
COUNT 3: MENACING, C.R.S. 18-3-206 (F5)
Sentence: 3 years DOC
COUNT 6: DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE, C.R.S. 42-4-1301(1)(a) (M)
Sentence: 1 year of jail (served in DOC)
ADDED COUNT 9: AGGRAVATED MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT IN THE SECOND DEGREE – Section 18-4-409(4)(c), C.R.S. (M1)
Sentence: 364 days in jail (served in DOC)
Romero received a total of 12 years in DOC to be served consecutively to the sentence Romero is already serving for similar crimes he committed in Denver. Counts four, five, seven, and eight were dismissed as a result of Romero’s plea.
At today’s sentencing, the resounding message was that K9 Graffit, who was the most experienced and trained dog on JCSO’s team, was not just a dog. Deputies from JCSO spoke and submitted letters describing the profound impact that Graffit’s death has had on them, detailing what he meant to each of them and to the JCSO family. “Graffit was more than just a dog. He was a friend, family member, a loved one, and most of all, he was Deputy Oliver’s partner.”
Senior Deputy District Attorney Amanda Becker, who specializes in prosecuting animal-related crimes, detailed how law enforcement canines are highly skilled partners capable of tasks beyond human abilities. “They have the senses that allow us to see what we cannot see—drugs, humans, weapons—law enforcement animals have helped keep our communities safe, and they are an asset.”
Romero also faced charges related to felony ID Theft after providing a false name to police, having their passport, and using their identity to rent a motel room.
DA Becker asked for the maximum possible sentence, noting Romero’s 10 previous convictions for similar behavior, his numerous unsuccessful attempts at rehabilitation, being on bond for multiple cases at the time of the incident, and his aggravated behavior that placed law enforcement in severe danger.
DA Becker told the court that Graffit’s training and experience cost Jefferson County taxpayers over $107,000. In addition to the necropsy and damages to patrol vehicles, the People are requesting $158,455.15 in restitution.
Romero, who has remained in custody since the arrest, spoke to the court and the victims, expressing remorse for his actions on that day.
District Court Judge Jason Carrithers noted how Romero’s past showed an escalation and “complete disregard for community norms, laws, and safety” that culminated with the loss of a law enforcement member. Carrithers also noted how “incredibly scary” this incident must have been for students at the Colorado School of Mines. “The level of fear those students must have felt, I can only imagine.”
A final hearing to address restitution is set in this matter for Jul. 11 at 3pm.
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