Shadows of Justice: Unraveling Colorado's Cold Cases and Crimes Against Children
March 20, 2025, 4:26 pm
In the heart of Colorado, two recent cases have cast long shadows over the community. One is a cold case from 2007, a haunting reminder of a young mother’s tragic end. The other is a disturbing tale of exploitation, where innocence was traded for drugs and despair. Both stories reflect the relentless pursuit of justice and the dark underbelly of society.
The first case revolves around Jessica Bejarano, a young mother whose life was cut short in Frederick, Colorado. After years of uncertainty, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has made a significant breakthrough. A man named Burklund, now 72, has been arrested on suspicion of her homicide. The CBI’s cold case team, like a dogged detective in a noir film, never lost sight of the truth. They pieced together evidence, sifted through time, and finally, a glimmer of hope emerged for Bejarano’s family.
The CBI director, who has been on this case since its inception, emphasized the importance of perseverance. He reminded everyone that justice doesn’t adhere to a timeline. It can take years, but the commitment to uncovering the truth remains steadfast. This case is a testament to the power of hope and the tireless work of investigators. It’s a reminder that even the coldest cases can thaw under the warmth of determination.
As Burklund awaits extradition to Colorado, the community holds its breath. The charge against him is an accusation, a mere shadow of guilt until proven in court. But for Bejarano’s family, this arrest is a beacon. It symbolizes that no matter how deep the darkness, light can break through.
In stark contrast, the second case tells a different story—one of betrayal and exploitation. A Longmont man, Gomez Rubio, was sentenced to over 90 years in prison for a series of heinous crimes against minors. This case is a chilling reminder of the dangers lurking in plain sight. Rubio, along with his co-defendant, preyed on vulnerable children, exchanging drugs for sexual favors.
The investigation began when school officials noticed an alarming trend. Students were found with vape pens, and whispers of sexual assault began to surface. Like a spider spinning a web, the police unraveled the connections between the victims and their predators. Social media and phone data became crucial tools in identifying the culprits, known as “Fastlane” and “Slowlane.”
The charges against Rubio are staggering—55 counts involving 13 victims, all minors. This is not just a case of drug dealing; it’s a grim illustration of human trafficking. The police chief emphasized the importance of keeping children safe. The community rallied together, showcasing the power of collaboration among law enforcement and schools.
Rubio’s sentencing is a small victory in a larger battle against child exploitation. It sends a message to would-be traffickers: the community is watching. The authorities are vigilant. Justice, though slow, is relentless.
Both cases highlight the duality of justice in Colorado. On one hand, there’s the hope of resolution in cold cases, where time can heal wounds and bring closure. On the other, there’s the urgent need to protect the most vulnerable from those who would exploit them.
The CBI’s cold case team and local law enforcement are like guardians of the night. They stand watch, ensuring that the past is not forgotten and that the present is safe. Their work is often thankless, but it is vital. Each arrest, each conviction, is a step toward healing for victims and their families.
As these stories unfold, they remind us of the complexities of justice. It is not a straight path but a winding road filled with obstacles. The journey can be long, but the destination is worth the struggle.
In the end, justice is not just about punishment; it’s about restoration. It’s about giving victims a voice and a chance to reclaim their lives. It’s about ensuring that families can find peace, even in the wake of tragedy.
Colorado stands at a crossroads. The community must remain vigilant, supporting law enforcement in their quest for justice. Together, they can shine a light into the darkest corners, ensuring that no one is left behind.
As we reflect on these cases, let us remember the faces behind the headlines. Each name represents a story, a life intertwined with hope and despair. Justice may be slow, but it is a journey worth taking. The shadows may linger, but the light of truth will always find a way to shine through.
The first case revolves around Jessica Bejarano, a young mother whose life was cut short in Frederick, Colorado. After years of uncertainty, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has made a significant breakthrough. A man named Burklund, now 72, has been arrested on suspicion of her homicide. The CBI’s cold case team, like a dogged detective in a noir film, never lost sight of the truth. They pieced together evidence, sifted through time, and finally, a glimmer of hope emerged for Bejarano’s family.
The CBI director, who has been on this case since its inception, emphasized the importance of perseverance. He reminded everyone that justice doesn’t adhere to a timeline. It can take years, but the commitment to uncovering the truth remains steadfast. This case is a testament to the power of hope and the tireless work of investigators. It’s a reminder that even the coldest cases can thaw under the warmth of determination.
As Burklund awaits extradition to Colorado, the community holds its breath. The charge against him is an accusation, a mere shadow of guilt until proven in court. But for Bejarano’s family, this arrest is a beacon. It symbolizes that no matter how deep the darkness, light can break through.
In stark contrast, the second case tells a different story—one of betrayal and exploitation. A Longmont man, Gomez Rubio, was sentenced to over 90 years in prison for a series of heinous crimes against minors. This case is a chilling reminder of the dangers lurking in plain sight. Rubio, along with his co-defendant, preyed on vulnerable children, exchanging drugs for sexual favors.
The investigation began when school officials noticed an alarming trend. Students were found with vape pens, and whispers of sexual assault began to surface. Like a spider spinning a web, the police unraveled the connections between the victims and their predators. Social media and phone data became crucial tools in identifying the culprits, known as “Fastlane” and “Slowlane.”
The charges against Rubio are staggering—55 counts involving 13 victims, all minors. This is not just a case of drug dealing; it’s a grim illustration of human trafficking. The police chief emphasized the importance of keeping children safe. The community rallied together, showcasing the power of collaboration among law enforcement and schools.
Rubio’s sentencing is a small victory in a larger battle against child exploitation. It sends a message to would-be traffickers: the community is watching. The authorities are vigilant. Justice, though slow, is relentless.
Both cases highlight the duality of justice in Colorado. On one hand, there’s the hope of resolution in cold cases, where time can heal wounds and bring closure. On the other, there’s the urgent need to protect the most vulnerable from those who would exploit them.
The CBI’s cold case team and local law enforcement are like guardians of the night. They stand watch, ensuring that the past is not forgotten and that the present is safe. Their work is often thankless, but it is vital. Each arrest, each conviction, is a step toward healing for victims and their families.
As these stories unfold, they remind us of the complexities of justice. It is not a straight path but a winding road filled with obstacles. The journey can be long, but the destination is worth the struggle.
In the end, justice is not just about punishment; it’s about restoration. It’s about giving victims a voice and a chance to reclaim their lives. It’s about ensuring that families can find peace, even in the wake of tragedy.
Colorado stands at a crossroads. The community must remain vigilant, supporting law enforcement in their quest for justice. Together, they can shine a light into the darkest corners, ensuring that no one is left behind.
As we reflect on these cases, let us remember the faces behind the headlines. Each name represents a story, a life intertwined with hope and despair. Justice may be slow, but it is a journey worth taking. The shadows may linger, but the light of truth will always find a way to shine through.