Author: Kevin Thompson

SALT LAKE CITY — A new proposal at the Utah State Capitol seeks to establish a state-run “rapid response team” to assist or replace the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) if the city’s police fail to respond quickly to calls or enforce laws effectively. The proposal, House Bill 465 (HB 465), comes just days before the announcement that SLCPD Chief Mike Brown would step down from his post. The bill has sparked concerns from state leaders about the effectiveness of local policing, particularly in the face of growing issues like homelessness, camping, and drug-related crimes. The state is pushing…

Salt Lake City, UT – Salt Lake City is beginning the search for a new police chief following the announcement of Chief Mike Brown’s retirement on Wednesday. Brown’s decision to step down comes amid growing concerns about the effectiveness of the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD), with some local leaders questioning whether the department’s struggles are due to Brown’s leadership, Mayor Erin Mendenhall’s administration, or a combination of both. The announcement of Brown’s departure has already prompted action from state lawmakers. Republican Senate leaders have voiced their concerns over the department’s ability to respond to calls in a timely…