Early 1960’s

Every town has its fair share of “over-the-top” local constables and Aspen is no
different.  That is not to say that some of Aspen’s past law enforcement officials did not do a good job but it is fair to say that some of them performed their duties with a bit more panache’ or maybe too much bravado.  And some were downright mean.

One of the more colorful law enforcement officials was a man by the name of Buck Davis,
local Undersheriff of Pitkin County.  To say he was officious would be putting it lightly.

My father enjoyed a beverage or two after a hard day’s work and he often found it easier
to ride his bike to and from the bars rather than deal with the parking issues of the day.  He lived with his family next to Peapcke Park so his rides into town were really no more than four or five blocks depending on which bar he chose to go to.  My dad actually rode his bike all over the valley, usually preferring it over driving, as did the rest of his family.

On this particular night my father had a number of “beverages” prior to heading
home.  He could not have gone more than a block or two when Buck had him in his sights.
“Riding While Intoxicated” was the crime and dad was caught red handed.  A conversation ensued, one Buck
would not lose, and soon my father was on foot with Buck following behind, in his squad car.  Either my father walked his bike home or off to jail, it was up to him. Electing the short walk home, Buck made sure that my father did not attempt to remount his rubber wheeled steed and ride home.

It was always good to know Aspen’s streets were safe from “RWI” offenders.  This was classic Buck and a little research on your own would prove he was no “push over” by those local hoodlums who roamed the streets on foot or a steed.

Thanks Buck!