Nathon Nadow sworn in as Chief at recent town council meeting

Nathon Nadow took over as Haxtun's Police Chief last week. He was officially sworn into office on Tuesday, Jan. 4 and began duties the following day, Wednesday, Jan. 5. Nadow takes the reins after the resignation of former Chief Tanya Mayhew who resigned from her position late last fall. His addition to the local police force brings the department up to two including Chief Nadow and Officer Tom Bullard.

Nadow was born in Brighton and grew up in Keenesburg. He moved to Sterling seven years ago and began a career with the Colorado Department of Corrections. In his four years with DOC, he worked in multiple areas of the prison including segregation, visiting and external security. He was also a member of the Emergency Response team.

After four years, Nadow left the department of corrections to pursue his Colorado POST certificate. Since then, he has worked as a Deputy with the Phillips County Sheriff's Office. In his three years with the local sheriff's office, he worked closely with all law enforcement agencies in the county. Nadow also worked part-time for the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office.

"I have attended multiple trainings throughout my career and have built a good relationship with multiple officers in other agencies," he said. "I have always wanted to get into law enforcement and follow in my family's footsteps."

Nadow is a fourth generation law enforcement officer. His great-grandfather retired from the Denver Police Department, his grandfather retired from Laramie County Sheriff's Office and his father is retired from the Colorado State Patrol and currently serves as a Deputy with the Yuma County Sheriff's Office. Additionally, Nadow's uncle is a retired State Trooper and his aunt is a retired Federal Heights detective.

Nadow said he and his wife bought a home in Haxtun in 2019 and he fell in love with the small town feel. "I fell in love with this town because it reminded me of Keenesburg when I was growing up and I decided this is where I want my kids to grow up."

Nadow's family includes two girls, Aubrey, who is almost three, and Madison, four months. "I love being outdoors and taking Aubrey fishing. The Haxtun Pond has been a perfect place to take the girls and our dogs."

As for choosing to pursue the Haxtun Police Chief position, Nadow said he has worked well with both Bullard and former Chief Mayhew throughout this time with the Sheriff's Office and he enjoys the community. "I know this position does not open easily and for good reason," he said. "I knew that if I was given an opportunity to be Chief, I would do the best I can to keep the community safe and work until I retire."

His first time of business as new Chief, Nadow said, is to hire a third officer and get the local department back to full staff. "I want to hire someone who knows what small town living is all about and will stay in this community long term."

Nadow is also looking forward to meeting community members. "I am excited and focused on giving our children in the community a better and safe future. I plan on being involved with the school and interacting with our children as often as I can."

He is also prioritizing safety and keeping Haxtun an enjoyable place to live. Nadow hopes to soon host a community forum to give residents an opportunity to meet him and visit along with other members of the department including Officer Bullard and Police Clerk Vickie Freemyer.

"If any community members have any questions or concerns regarding any issues, I would really like to sit down and listen to come up with a solution," Nadow said. "This department is here for the community and will always put you first."