A former Colorado police officer has received a sentence of supervised probation after a train crash in 2022 near Platteville. Jordan Steinke, 29, was found guilty of reckless endangerment and assault for placing a handcuffed woman in a police vehicle that was hit by a freight train, resulting in the woman sustaining serious injuries. Despite prosecutors and defense attorneys recommending a probationary sentence, Weld County District Court Judge Timothy Kerns initially planned to impose jail time but ultimately decided against it.
As part of her probation, Steinke is required to perform 100 hours of community service, and any violations of the terms could result in a reconsideration of the sentencing. During the sentencing hearing, Steinke expressed remorse for the incident and offered an apology to the injured woman, Yareni Rios-Gonzalez. She also expressed her desire to contribute to the community by providing educational talks to new police officers about the dangers of railroad tracks and the importance of situational awareness.
Steinke was fired from the Fort Lupton police department following her conviction, and she is expected to lose her Peace Officer Standards and Training certification, which means she can no longer work as a police officer. In contrast, then-Plateville Police Sgt. Pablo Vazquez, who parked the police vehicle on the tracks, still faces trial for his involvement in the crash. Vazquez has been charged with reckless endangerment and traffic-related violations.
The incident, captured on dramatic video footage, showed the train colliding with the police vehicle and the subsequent rush for medical assistance. Rios-Gonzalez, who suffered a brain injury as a result, has filed a lawsuit against the police agencies involved.
FAQ
What was Jordan Steinke sentenced for?
Jordan Steinke, a former police officer, was sentenced for reckless endangerment and assault in connection with a train crash near Platteville. She placed a handcuffed woman in a police vehicle that was hit by a freight train, causing the woman to sustain serious injuries.
What is the punishment for Jordan Steinke?
Instead of a jail sentence, Jordan Steinke received 30 months of supervised probation. She must also perform 100 hours of community service. Violating the terms of her probation may result in a reconsideration of the sentencing.
What will happen to Jordan Steinke’s career as a police officer?
Due to the conviction, Jordan Steinke was fired from the Fort Lupton police department and is expected to lose her Peace Officer Standards and Training certification. This means that she can no longer work as a police officer.
What charges does then-Plateville Police Sgt. Pablo Vazquez face?
Pablo Vazquez, who parked the police vehicle on the train tracks, faces charges of reckless endangerment and traffic-related violations. He is awaiting trial for his involvement in the train crash.