SALT LAKE CITY, UT – Mayor Erin Mendenhall has officially named Brian Redd, the executive director of the Utah Department of Corrections (UDC), as Salt Lake City’s next chief of police. The announcement, made during a Thursday afternoon press conference, follows the upcoming retirement of current Chief Mike Brown, who has served the city for over three decades.
Brown, who will retire on February 28, 2025, after 33 years of service, leaves behind a legacy marked by a significant reduction in crime rates. However, Mendenhall indicated that his decision to step down was rooted in the need for improvement in statewide relationships. While the city saw a decline in crime under Brown’s leadership, Mendenhall emphasized that the evolving needs of the city required new leadership.
“As our city grows, policing must continue to evolve and become more responsive to the dynamic challenges in our community,” Mendenhall said. “It’s critical we meet this moment with urgency and with leadership in our police department that’s rooted in a deep commitment to collaboration. I believe Brian Redd is that leader.”
Redd brings with him more than two decades of experience with the Utah Department of Public Safety and has held leadership positions outside of law enforcement, including as a vice president of compliance at Goldman Sachs. In 2023, he was appointed as the executive director of UDC, where he has been instrumental in creating innovative programs such as the department’s first victim services program and leading police reform efforts in 2020.
Mendenhall praised Redd for his ability to unite people to achieve common goals, noting that his collaborative approach sets him apart as an ideal fit for the role.
“What stands out most about Brian Redd isn’t just his experience, it’s his ability to bring people together to get things done,” Mendenhall remarked.
Redd addressed the press, reflecting on his past work in Salt Lake City and his eagerness to tackle the intersection of crime, homelessness, mental health, and addiction. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the police department and pledged his commitment to serving the community.
“Thank you, Mayor Mendenhall, for the opportunity to join your team. I appreciate your confidence in me, and I look forward to serving alongside the amazing police officers and civilian staff in the Salt Lake City Police Department,” Redd said.
The appointment follows Mayor Mendenhall’s release of her Public Safety Plan earlier this year, which seeks to strengthen partnerships between Salt Lake City and the Department of Public Safety. Mendenhall assured the public that Redd is prepared to step into the role immediately.
In his remarks, Redd also took a moment to thank Chief Brown for his years of service, calling him “an amazing professional and friend” and acknowledging the critical role Brown has played in guiding the department through recent challenges.
“As for the residents of Salt Lake City, I’m honored to serve you and pledge my best effort in providing excellent police services so that residents and visitors alike will feel safe and supported,” Redd added.
Redd’s appointment signals a new chapter for the Salt Lake City Police Department, with a focus on collaborative leadership and addressing the city’s evolving public safety needs.