A former Colorado police sergeant who once received recognition for his service is now facing jail time after admitting to sexual misconduct involving participants in a police youth career program.
Troy Brienzo, 32, a former sergeant with the Parker Police Department, was sentenced Oct. 6 to 90 days in county jail and four years of intensive sex offender supervision probation. The sentence followed his Aug. 3 guilty plea to felony unlawful sexual conduct by a peace officer while on duty and misdemeanor first-degree official misconduct.
The case involved two adult women participating in the department’s Explorer program, which introduces young people to careers in law enforcement. Brienzo served as an adviser to the program, placing him in a position of authority over participants.
According to investigators, one woman reported that during a January 2026 police ride-along, Brienzo repeatedly introduced sexual topics before taking her to a secluded area of the police station. She alleged that he touched her inappropriately while pretending to conduct a training pat-down. Investigators said the encounter later escalated to sexual activity inside his marked police vehicle.
A second woman also reported having sex with Brienzo in his patrol car during a ride-along. Both women were adults at the time of the reported incidents.
The Parker Police Department learned of the allegations Jan. 7 and immediately placed Brienzo on administrative leave. An outside law enforcement agency was brought in to investigate, and Brienzo resigned Feb. 13 while the investigation continued.
He was arrested April 3 following a grand jury indictment that initially included seven criminal charges. Several charges were subsequently dismissed as part of his plea agreement.
Brienzo had spent approximately nine years with the department and previously received several commendations. In 2025, he was recognized as an Officer of the Year by the Cherry Creek Valley Rotary Club.
During his sentencing hearing, four victims addressed the court about the impact of his conduct. Brienzo expressed remorse, telling the judge that he wakes up feeling ashamed and believes he disappointed many people.
District Attorney George Brauchler criticized Brienzo’s misuse of his position, emphasizing that officers are expected to uphold the law rather than exploit the authority entrusted to them. Prosecutors also stressed the lasting impact on those affected by his actions.
Parker Police Chief Jim Tsurapas condemned the former sergeant’s behavior, saying the department stands with the survivors and recognizes the courage required to report misconduct involving a law enforcement officer.
The sentence has also generated criticism online, with some residents questioning whether 90 days behind bars is sufficient punishment for a felony involving an officer’s abuse of authority. Others have pointed to the restrictive nature of intensive sex offender supervision probation.
The case raises broader questions about accountability in law enforcement, particularly when officers are responsible for mentoring young people who may someday enter the profession themselves.
