Salt Lake City Police Department

The Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) is the municipal law enforcement agency responsible for policing the city of Salt Lake City, Utah, in the United States. The department is known for its historical significance and its role in maintaining public safety and order within the city.

History

The SLCPD was established in 1851, shortly after the creation of the city's charter. At its inception, the police department was made up of 40 men, each earning 25 cents per hour. Over the years, the department has expanded and evolved to meet the growing needs of the city's population.

Organization

The headquarters of the SLCPD is located in downtown Salt Lake City at 475 South and 300 East, in close proximity to the Salt Lake City Public Library. The headquarters is housed within the Salt Lake City Public Safety Building, a facility shared with the Salt Lake City Fire Department.

The SLCPD is structured into three main bureaus, each overseen by a Deputy Chief and directed from the Office of the Chief. The bureaus are:

Administrative Bureau: Responsible for internal functions such as human resources, finance, and training.
Field Operations Bureau: Handles patrolling and emergency response across the city.
Investigative Bureau: Focuses on criminal investigations and detective work.

Leadership

As of 2025, the Chief of Police is Brian Redd, who was recommended by Mayor Erin Mendenhall and confirmed by the Salt Lake City Council. Prior to this role, Redd served as the Executive Director of the Utah Department of Corrections and held a position at the Utah Department of Public Safety.

Notable Incidents

The SLCPD has been involved in several high-profile incidents. One such event was the Trolley Square shooting, where officers played a crucial role in neutralizing the threat. Another significant incident involved the arrest of nurse Alex Wubbels at the University of Utah Hospital in 2017, which drew national attention.

In May 2020, the department was involved in the controversial killing of Bernardo Palacios-Carbajal, which sparked discussions on police practices and use of force.

Community Impact

The SLCPD actively engages with the community through various outreach programs and public safety initiatives. Crime reports are regularly published to keep residents informed, particularly in neighborhoods like Rose Park and Glendale.