Denver Police Chief Robert White announced sweeping changes Thursday saying the moves are "About preventing crime for the people we serve."
In a three page letter distributed to all DPD employees and obtained by CBS4, White announced some officers will be replaced by civilians and that an undetermined number of Detectives, Technicians and Corporals will have to reapply for their jobs.
"This is about preventing crime and moving resources to patrol," reads the letter. "Simply put, this is the right thing to do."
It's likely hundreds of officers will have to reapply for their positions or face demotion.
"These are appointed positions and we will fill them with the best employees," wrote White.
Lt. Matt Murray, an aide to Chief White, told CBS4 a plan will be released at a later date specifying how many officers will have to reapply for their positions.
One current detective, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said the letter is being met with widespread anger. He said officers plan to band together and refuse to reapply, en masse.
"I'm not reapplying," said the veteran detective. "It's a slap in the face."
Lt Murray indicated the positions will be filled, one way or the other.
"Any officer is welcome to apply or choose not to," said Murray.
Download: Letter from Denver Police Chief Robert White to Denver Officers