Salt Lake City, UT — A 44-year-old parolee was arrested last week after officers with the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) recovered a stolen loaded handgun and suspected fentanyl pills during a routine traffic stop. The arrest occurred on Thursday, January 30, near 700 South and 300 West, as part of the department’s ongoing efforts to combat crime in high-need areas.
According to SLCPD detectives, the suspect, later identified as Craig Greene, was pulled over during a traffic stop when officers found marijuana, two loaded handguns—one of which had been reported stolen out of Lehi—and pills believed to be fentanyl. Greene, who is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his parole status, was taken into custody and booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on charges related to firearm possession and drug offenses.
Detectives requested a no-bail hold for Greene, citing concerns that he may be a flight risk. Court records confirm that the request was approved, and Greene remains in custody without bail pending a pretrial hearing.
This arrest is the latest in a series of actions by the Salt Lake City Police Department as part of the city’s Public Safety Plan, which aims to reduce crime and improve the overall safety of the community. Between January 12 and February 1, SLCPD reported 460 jail bookings, 337 citations, the seizure of 42 firearms, and the issuance of 82 illegal camping citations as part of the plan’s enforcement measures.
Mayor Erin Mendenhall expressed support for the initiative, commending the work of the city’s officers and social workers. “We clearly identified actions to improve public safety, and we’re taking them,” Mendenhall said in a statement. “I’m grateful to our officers and social workers who are helping enhance public safety in high-need areas around the Jordan River Trail, Ballpark neighborhood, and downtown core to ensure they’re safe and welcoming to all.”
As part of the Public Safety Plan, the police department has also conducted two successful two-day operations this year—one focused on the Jordan River Trail and another near the Main City Library. The SLCPD emphasized that their approach combines data-driven policing with social outreach to address both criminal activity and community needs.
With the ongoing support of local leaders and a continued focus on public safety, the Salt Lake City Police Department remains committed to tackling crime while ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.