Letter to the Editor: Resident voices support for Chief Norton and Officer Crow

Citizen shares personal experiences and calls for Meeker officials to keep Chief Trent Norton and Officer Kyle Crow serving the community.

By Kala Skillett · June 30, 2026 · Community

June 27, 2026

To Whom It May Concern,

I am writing to express my unwavering support for Chief Trent Norton and Officer Kyle Crow. Recent news regarding their employment status deeply concerns me. I want to share my personal experiences to highlight their exceptional character and invaluable service to the Meeker community.

Under their leadership, Meeker has embodied the true spirit of small-town America. In the past, many small towns suffered from reputations of aggressive policing and fear-driven tactics that drove visitors away from Main Street. Chief Norton and Officer Crow have completely shifted that dynamic here. Drivers now feel safe rather than threatened. They understand that law-abiding citizens occasionally make minor mistakes, like driving with a broken tail light or missing a slight speed drop. Their use of friendly warnings has reduced community stress and fostered immense goodwill.

Their dedication to our children creates a healthy, protective environment for the next generation. The officers regularly visit local daycares, participate in Halloween events, and drive through neighborhoods offering warm greetings and fist bumps. My four-year-old grandson absolutely adores them. When my daughter was pulled over a few months ago, my grandson was not scared or worried about what his mother did wrong. Instead, he was thrilled because he views these officers as protectors and friends. Officer Crow handled the situation with immense kindness and professionalism. He used his training to assess the situation perfectly, issuing a warning that left a lasting, positive impression. Kindness cannot be taught; it must be shown, and these men lead by example.

On a deeply personal note, Officer Crow proved his outstanding character during a medical emergency at my home in the middle of the night. While I was slipping in and out of consciousness on my shower floor, Officer Crow and another officer stayed with me and my aunt until EMSA arrived. Their presence provided an immense sense of safety during a terrifying ordeal. I will forever be grateful for their professionalism and genuine care during that crisis.

While I do not know the administrative details surrounding this situation, I know the caliber of these men. Chief Trent Norton and Officer Kyle Crow are fully invested in the safety and well-being of Meeker. I respectfully urge you to allow these dedicated gentlemen to continue serving our city.

Sincerely,
Kala Skillett