“We are deeply regretful of the experience to which this family was subjected,” Grand Junction police and the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office said in a joint statement.
“We have met with the family, including the children, to explain in detail how such a mistake was made.”
The team broke windows and busted down the door of the house before realizing they were in the wrong place. The family had been living at the home for approximately a year.
“We got some pretty detailed information from (an) informant,” police spokeswoman Heidi Davidson told the Associated Press. “The name we were given was associated with the address. It just wasn’t current.”
The department will be replacing the windows, door, and carpet that was littered with broken glass.
“Believe me, our officers and deputies are extremely committed to accuracy, and no one wants to make a mistake like that,” Grand Junction Police Chief John Camper said.
Neighbor Joey Slaughenhaupt told KJCT 8 that he had witnessed law enforcement agents “all armored up” and pointing AK-47’s at the windows.
“I can only imagine being a kid, I wouldn't sleep for awhile,” he stated. “It's just bad for the kids in general. I don't know how you make that up.”
