Highlands Ranch Metro District to equip park rangers with body cameras and retractable batons after rise in hostile interactions

Ken Standen, Director of Operations and Maintenance for the Highlands Ranch Metropolitan District, told the board that Park Rangers recorded more than 5,000 resident interactions last year and continue to serve as the primary public-facing staff for education, rule enforcement and maintenance reporting. Standen said recent encounters with members of the public have become "increasingly hostile," prompting new safety steps.

Standen said the board has approved deployment of body-worn cameras for the Ranger unit and that the devices "will be deployed in the coming weeks." He also reported the Rangers have been equipped and trained to use retractable batons for defensive purposes, describing the tools as intended to help maintain distance and enhance officer safety while allowing Rangers to continue routine public service duties. Standen noted Rangers work in coordination with South Metro Fire Rescue for emergency response.

Board members asked questions about training and operational protocols; Standen responded to those questions, describing training and the District's emphasis on ensuring Rangers maintain a high level of service while addressing safety concerns. The board previously approved the body-worn camera program; Standen said the next steps include equipment rollout and staff training. No formal policy vote or ordinance was recorded during the study session.