In a significant milestone that highlights years of unwavering commitment, coordination, and excellence, the North Central Colorado Regional Child Abduction Response Team (NCCR-CART) has officially achieved U.S. Department of Justice national certification. The National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC) proudly recognizes this exceptional accomplishment, celebrating a team that exemplifies the highest standards in child protection.

Founded in 2014, the NCCR-CART regional alliance brings together 28 law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and advocacy partners, all united by a single mission: to strengthen the region’s ability to respond rapidly and effectively to child abduction cases. Earning DOJ certification reflects not only their dedication to protecting children but also their ongoing investment in rigorous training, cross-jurisdictional collaboration, and steadfast preparedness.

Behind the tactical training and interagency agreements lies a deeply poignant purpose. The drive behind NCCR-CART honors the memory of 10-year-old Jessica Ridgeway. In 2012, Jessica was abducted and tragically killed while walking to school in Westminster, Colorado. Her heartbreaking case shook communities across the region and serves as a lasting, powerful reminder of exactly why this critical work matters so much.

Recently, the team demonstrated its operational readiness to honor that mission through a full-scale exercise in Westminster. Participating agencies navigated a complex, simulated child abduction scenario that tested every facet of their response capabilities. The exercise successfully utilized specialized resources, including K-9 units, digital forensics experts, and highly coordinated field operations, proving the region is ready to act at a moment's notice.

The NCJTC is profoundly honored to support dedicated teams like NCCR-CART. Committed to advancing the capabilities of Child Abduction Response Teams nationwide, the NCJTC extends its deepest congratulations to every individual and agency involved in reaching this monumental milestone. Through their hard work and vigilance, they ensure their communities are safer, and Jessica’s legacy is remembered.