DPS NEWS

Chief Forensic Scientist Pilar Shortsleeve Retires After 30 Years at the Crime Lab

Pilar Shortsleeve, Chief Forensic Scientist at Utah’s state crime lab, is retiring after 30 years of service. The crime lab held a small reception on Thursday to honor Pilar and her incredible work.

Before presenting her with a special retirement shadow box, crime lab Director Jay Henry reflected on Pilar’s career. “In 1993, we made a pact that we would work together to make the best lab possible. We wanted to work in the best laboratory.” Seeing the crime lab’s new facility, the growth its experienced over the years, the services it provides and the crimes its helped solve, “is a lot due to your leadership and being here in the laboratory,” he said. “I know I couldn’t have done it without you here and we couldn’t have done it without you here. You were the steady hand that has kept us on track. I’ve appreciated your levelheadedness. I’ve appreciated your solid leadership in the lab. Your good work here helped build this facility. We owe you and the State of Utah owes you a debt of gratitude.”

“We owe you and the State of Utah owes you a debt of gratitude.”

Jay Henry

Commissioner Anderson congratulated Pilar on her retirement and on behalf of the governor and the people of Utah, thanked her for her service and dedication. “The true impact of what you do and have done during your years of service – I don’t know that you will ever be able to put a measure on that,” he said. “The lives that have been affected, the crimes that have been solved, the heartache that’s been healed, all because of the effort you’ve put forth…not everyone gets to do that, not everyone gets to say that.”

Pilar said she normally only speaks in public when she’s testifying in court. But she did say a few words and thanked the crime lab staff for their work and support. “Thank you all, for everything you guys have done to make my job so much easier and so much more pleasant,” she said. “I know there’s so much to do – I’m sorry I have to leave when there’s so much to do. Thank you.”

Pilar A. Shortsleeve – Chief Forensic Scientist
 
1989 was a very good year…and one that the crime lab will always remember…Chief, when the law made you a witness, you remained a woman of science. Thank you for 30 years of distinguished service. You will be deeply missed. Presented this 15^thday of February 2019.

Congratulations, Pilar! Thank you for your service and dedication to the people of Utah! You will be missed.