(PUEBLO, Colo.) — A former officer with the Pueblo Police Department has resigned following his arrest by the FBI on serious allegations of child sexual exploitation. Former Officer Gerardo Mejia was taken custody on January 30, 2025, and faces felony charges of Sexual Exploitation of a Child: Possess-Distribute.
The investigation began when Mejia came under scrutiny, prompting the PPD to notify the FBI and the Colorado Springs Police Department, who collaborated on the arrest. The Pueblo Police Department confirmed the arrest and subsequent resignation on the same day, marking the end of Mejia's tenure after just two years with the department. PPD acted swiftly upon receiving notice of the allegations, stating, "Due to Mejia’s prompt resignation, he was not placed on paid administrative leave," contrary to the typical procedure.
Pueblo Police Chief Chris Noeller addressed the situation, highlighting the importance of maintaining integrity within law enforcement. "I want to emphasis no one is above the law. Our department has taken swift action to address this behavior, which represent significant violation of trust and moral standards,” Noeller stated. He expressed deep concerns over the gravity of the allegations against Mejia, reinforcing the need for law enforcement officials to uphold the highest standards of ethical behavior.
Mejia's alleged actions have raised significant questions about accountability within police departments and community trust. Noeller reiterated, “We understand as law enforcement officials it is imperative to operate with the highest levels of integrity to maintain the trust of the community we serve. Any actions undermining our oath will not be tolerated.”
The misconduct investigation initiated by the Pueblo Police Department is consistent with established protocols to address employee-related allegations. PPD officials confirmed the case will be prosecuted by the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, emphasizing the seriousness with which they are approaching these allegations.
Community members are understandably concerned, and the department’s swift response is intended to restore confidence and transparency. Chief Noeller's remarks strike at the core of law enforcement's responsibilities: building and maintaining trust with the community. The integrity of police officers is pivotal, especially when claims like these threaten to undermine public confidence.
The Pueblo Police Department, under Chief Noeller’s leadership, has committed to collaborating with federal authorities to pursue the fullest extent of the law against Mejia. They aim not only to handle this case with diligence but also to send a clear message to the community about their zero-tolerance policy for misconduct.
The resignation and arrest of Gerardo Mejia are echoes of broader national conversations about transparency, accountability, and ethics within police forces. The Pueblo community will be watching closely as this case progresses, eager for answers on how such misconduct can occur and what measures are being taken to prevent it.
At this point, PPD states they will refrain from additional comments on the situation as it advances through legal channels. The focus is now on ensuring justice prevails and to reestablish trust between law enforcement officers and the citizens they serve.