ALAMOSA – Alamosa Police Department Detective Brandon Bertsch was recently recognized by Tu Casa with the Dale Ruff Protector Award for his work and diligence in investigating a violent sexual assault that resulted in the perpetrator receiving a multi-decade prison sentence.
Detective Bertsch was nominated by 12th Judicial District Attorney Anne Kelly and staff from Tu Casa, Inc. for his work in holding a violent predator accountable.
The Dale Ruff Protector of Children Award was created in 2018 in honor and memory of the late Chief, Dale Ruff, of Sanford Police Department. Ruff is remembered as a supporter of the SLV Child Advocacy Center model and for his kindness toward those he served as a police officer.
The recipients of this award are nominated by their peers and multi-disciplinary team members.
“This year, Tu Casa appropriately renamed this award as the Dale Ruff Protector Award, so we may honor the diligent work our law enforcement partners provide to both children and adult survivors throughout the San Luis Valley,” organizers stated.
In recognizing Bertsch, Tu Casa, Inc noted the following, “Detective Bertsch has been a law enforcement officer serving the Alamosa area for 10 years. Recently, Detective Bertsch investigated an adult sexual assault case that resulted in convictions of a violent rape and assault with a multiple decade long prison sentence for the perpetrator. Detective Bertsch not only investigated this case ethically and with intention, but he offered the victim kindness and support throughout the entire process, reminding the victim of their worth and dignity, while making them feel safe and valued. Because of Detective Bertsch’s dedication and passion for this case, this survivor was able to obtain justice, reconnect with family and support systems, and graduate from substance abuse treatment successfully. The words of this survivor encapsulate what drives Detective Bertsch every day he serves his community: ‘You literally saved my life. Thank you for protecting me. Thank you for sticking with me when I couldn't stick up for myself.’”
