Mystery Writers of America

Summer has been busy, but Thursday night I made time to drive to Denver for a gathering of the Rocky Mountain Mystery Writers of America. This professional writing group hosts speakers on topics of interest to mystery and crime fiction authors. This month's program featured Sgt. Dean Christopherson from the Denver Police Department.

Sgt. Christopherson brought items from the Denver Police Museum. He spoke about how police officers were at a disadvantage in the early days of American history, hobbled by everything from rules about how to carry their firearms to the inadequacy of small caliber pistols against criminals who possessed military firearms.

​He became interested in gathering historical information and artifacts related to police officers, which led to founding the museum. Among the early hats, handcuffs, radio, badges, and pistol he brought to show us, there was also Harry Callahan's badge from the Clint Eastwood movie Dirty Harry. Sgt. Christopherson spoke about the important role movies have had in accurately portraying police work.

​It was an interesting evening, and well worth the drive. More photos below.

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