Fountain remembers Officer Julian Becerra on second anniversary; police chief says sentencing delayed pending statewide court review

Fountain Police Chief Christiani asked the council and the public to join a moment of silence on Feb. 11 to mark the second anniversary of Officer Julian Becerra’s death in the line of duty and updated the council on memorial and legal developments.

“Today’s the 2‑year anniversary of Julian passing away in the line of duty,” Chief Christiani told the council. She described the department’s remembrance events for family and officers and said the department remains in close contact with Becerra’s children. Chief Christiani said the defendant was convicted of murder several months ago but sentencing has not yet occurred because attorneys have raised a constitutional challenge to Colorado’s habitual offender laws that is before the Colorado Supreme Court; she said the city does not expect a final resolution until 2026 or later.

Chief Christiani also described work under way to place a park sign and dedicate a park in Aspen Ridge to honor Officer Becerra. She said the developer is willing to name a park after Becerra, a sign will be produced and that the city is targeting completion before the development’s homeowners association assumes control this summer. Chief Christiani said the sign will be “a quality product” and stressed the department’s appreciation for community support for the family and fellow officers.

Council observed a moment of silence; no formal council action was requested or taken on the recognition or on the pending sentencing timeline.