DPS NEWS

This past legislative session, the Department of Public Safety received new assignments, some of which will require new divisions to be created. DPS Commissioner Jess L. Anderson determined that one of the ways to best address the growth in the Department’s scope and responsibilities is to add an additional Deputy Commissioner who can provide leadership for […]

On Tuesday, April 18th, Utah’s Driver License Division (DLD) and DonorConnect unveiled the second of several tribute plaques, which honor members of Utah’s transplant community. This Tribute Plaque features 3-year-old Tayzli “Tay-Tay” Hale, who was a donor and saved 4 lives through the gift of donation. The Utah Department of Public Safety’s Driver License Division […]

On Wednesday, February 1st, the Utah Department of Public Safety’s Driver License Division (DLD) and DonorConnect joined with the Morgas and Navarro family to unveil the first of several tribute plaques, which honor members of Utah’s transplant community. This Tribute Plaque features Priscilla Morgas who was a donor and saved 5 lives by selecting yes […]

January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month – an important time to reflect on the resilience of trafficking survivors and recognize the efforts of those who work tirelessly to prevent and eliminate this inhumane and devastating form of abuse and exploitation. The information below can help you identify possible victims of human trafficking and find […]

SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 14, 2022) – Crash Responder Safety Week (Nov 14 – 18) Crash Responder communities across the nation come together this week by teaching each other and the motoring public about our common goal and responsibility for safe, quick roadway clearance. To achieve these goals, everyone must work together and do their part […]

The third full week in August has been designated as Drowsy Driving Awareness Week in Utah, so we’ll be sharing information about the dangers of drowsy driving and how everyone can help prevent episodes of it. Click HERE for Utah drowsy driving data dashboards. Drowsy Driving Can Have Deadly and Devastating Consequences Sometimes we tell […]

Fireworks are a big part of our 4th of July and Pioneer Day celebrations. We want to remind everyone that if you’re celebrating with fireworks, make sure you celebrate safely. Fireworks can cause serious injuries and have the potential to start fires. Fire Risk More than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually. National […]

Aero Bureau Report: We flew 16 missions this week. Heat strokes, lost parties, missing individuals, 24 people hoisted from slot canyons. 19 were hoisted out of Sandthrax Canyon after being stranded for 30 hours. After 19 hoists, a refuel, and 2 hours of blade time, we were pleased to find everyone was in good condition. […]

Beginning on May 4, 2022, a person driving at speeds of 105 miles per hour or greater can be charged with Reckless Driving, a Class B Misdemeanor. Additionally, any speed violation in excess of 100 miles per hour will result in a 150% enhanced fine.   While the need for this change is unfortunate and frustrating […]

For Immediate Release: Seat belt usage among Utahns drops to 88 percent  WHAT: As the summer months approach, the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS), Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) and the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) are making an increased effort to encourage Utahns to buckle up.  Seat belt use has decreased 2% from 90% […]

CLICK HERE FOR VIDEOS As warmer weather arrives in Utah, drivers can expect to see more motorcycles on our roads. And that means they’ll see more motorcycles lane filtering – moving between two lanes to the front of traffic stopped at an intersection. Motorcycle lane filtering has been legal under certain circumstances in Utah since […]

Updated Building Codes Support Mitigation and Disaster Discovery Funding  The 42nd Annual Building Safety Month is being observed this month around the world in an effort to raise awareness of increased building safety. The theme for this year’s campaign is Safety for All: Building Codes in Action. Purposeful building codes and the officials who enforce them […]

On April 2, 2022, UHP Lt. Jacob Cox intercepted a vehicle that entered a construction zone and would have crashed into construction workers were it not for his attentiveness. Here’s the story. Here’s the number we want you to remember: 224 feet.  That’s how much space was between Utah Highway Patrol Lt. Jacob Cox and […]

The covert operation will take place in Salt Lake and Utah counties. What:Law enforcement officers across Salt Lake and Utah Counties will utilize an unmarked van with spotters sitting inside looking for violations of Utah’s distracted driving laws. Violations will be called out to nearby marked units who will take appropriate enforcement action to educate or cite. Police agencies […]

Now with the past five years of data at your fingertips SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) is making the past five years of crime data available in new interactive dashboards.  The new dashboards allow the public to view and sort data by jurisdiction or law enforcement […]

On Thursday, March 17, 2022, at about 1:10 am, witnesses reported a reckless driver that had hit the concrete barrier and several construction cones was now eastbound on I-80 in the westbound lanes. Original callers observed the vehicle near 700 east and notified police. Troopers responded to the area and eventually located the black pickup […]

Law enforcement agencies statewide will conduct increased DUI enforcement on St. Patrick’s Day St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in America date back to the country’s founding. It is often is one of the biggest drinking nights of the year, and this, unfortunately, means more drunk drivers on the roads. However you celebrate, make sure you and […]

On Wednesday 03-02-2022 at 0957, a trooper had stopped a commercial vehicle for a move over violation on I-80 Westbound near milepost 85. He made a passenger side approach and was interacting with the driver and co-driver. While interacting with the driver and co-driver, another westbound semi was traveling in the right lane approaching the […]

The Utah Highway Patrol is sharing its game plan for Super Bowl weekend, and it includes extra enforcement, as well as encouragement to join their team. Extra DUI Enforcement For extra enforcement, over 20 different law enforcement agencies will be working more than 60 DUI overtime shifts. Every year, Utah law enforcement increases both DUI […]

SALT LAKE CITY – Today, FEMA and the Utah Department of Public Safety’s Division of Emergency Management (Utah DEM) released an inventory of unreinforced masonry (URM) school buildings in the state. The inventory has been in development over the past decade to support state efforts to identify URM buildings of all types, which are at […]

According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), in 2020 alone, people who experienced romance scams lost over $600M. Victims of romance scams in Utah lost over $6 million. Romance scams occur when a criminal adopts a fake online identity to gain a victim’s affection and trust. The scammer then uses the illusion of […]

Today, the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) announces the appointment of Edward “Ted” Black as State Fire Marshal. Ted replaces recently retired Fire Marshal Coy Porter.  Ted has been working as a chief deputy in the Fire Marshal’s Office since May 2013. Ted’s vast experience in various aspects of the fire service qualifies him […]

Subject: Nicholas Rossi, Aliases: Nicholas Alahverdian, Nicholas Alahverdian Rossi, Nicholas Edward Rossi, Nicholas Alahverdian-Rossi, Nick Alan, Nicholas Brown, Arthur Brown, Arthur Knight In 2020, the Utah County Attorney’s Office worked in coordination with the Utah Department of Public Safety — State Bureau of Investigation’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative unit to establish a multi-disciplinary team to review old sexual […]

This is the largest number of fatalities on Utah roads since 2002. Whatever’s going on in your life – please don’t take it out on the road. Taking risks behind the wheel comes with serious and deadly consequences. New media campaign to launch this winter. Media: link to press kit Today, UDOT Executive Director Carlos […]

Utahns are seeing an increase in statewide DUI enforcement which started December 15, 2021 and continues until January 1, 2022. During this time, over 145 extra DUI shifts are being worked by 22 different Utah law enforcement agencies statewide. Officers will be on high alert, looking to get impaired drivers off the roads. UHP will […]

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month SALT LAKE CITY ( Oct. 28, 2021) — Today, Utah Gov. Spencer J. Cox announced the formation of the Governor’s Cybersecurity Task Force. Building on the previous successes of partnerships already established in the law enforcement community, the Task Force will promote cybersecurity awareness, share information, identify cybersecurity assets and […]

We’ve been sharing information about how you can DO YOUR PART – BE CYBER SMART throughout the month of October. We thought we’d close out this Cybersecurity Awareness Month with information about cybercrime in Utah and throughout the nation. In Utah in 2020, there were 4,926 victims of cybercrime (50% increase from 2019), and $47,113,946 […]

2020’s data follows a nationwide trend and includes increases in numbers of homicides, robberies, aggravated assaults and thefts, but with a decrease in the number of rapes. Tuesday, October 5, 2021 The 2020 Crime in Utah Report, as well as reports going back to 1997, can be downloaded at bci.utah.gov. You can compare Utah data […]

Now in its 18th year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month continues to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity across our Nation. Held every October, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a collaborative effort between government and industry to ensure everyone in the Nation has the resources they need to be safer and more secure online.  DO YOUR PART. […]

The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) is hosting the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign and national enforcement mobilization to o deter, detect and remove impaired drivers from Utah’s roadways and encourage Utahns to choose a sober ride. On Wednesday, August 25th, DPS held a media event to raise awareness about the tragic […]

The third full week in August has been designated as Drowsy Driving Awareness Week in Utah, so we’ll be sharing information about the dangers of drowsy driving and how everyone can help prevent episodes of it. WHO During 2019, male drivers were two times more likely to drive drowsy than female drivers.  WHAT Driving while […]

For Immediate Release  The Together For Life Project helps Utahns start the conversation to remind their loved ones to buckle up [Taylorsville, Utah] – The Utah Highway Safety Office’s Together For Life rural seat belt project is relaunching its website. The tool includes information and resources for nine rural counties and new guidance for having the sometimes tricky conversation about asking someone to wear their seat belt.   ”We all […]

UPDATED INFO 15:00 P.M.Names of fatal parties involved. Occupants of the Buick: Passengers: Kortni Sawyer Age: 30  From: St. George, UTRiggins Sawyer Age: 6 From: St. George, UTFranki Sawyer Age: 2 From: St. George, UTDriver: Race Sawyer Age: 37 From: Lehi, UT (Father to Ryder and Brother-in-law to Kortni)Ryder Sawyer Age: 12 From: Lehi, UT […]

For Immediate Release Multistate campaign to raise awareness of seat belt safety Utah Highway Patrol joins forces with neighboring states to increase seat belt use and reduce out-of-state traveler’s fatalities during summer travel WHO: Colonel Michael Rapich, Utah Highway Patrol WHEN: July 1st, 2021 Availability for phone or in-person interviews with Colonel Rapich, call PIO […]

Utah Community Credit Union Signs on to Participate in Mobile Driver’s License Pilot State’s First Financial Institution to Pioneer Acceptance of Secure, Contactless Mobile ID Salt Lake City, Utah (June 22, 2021) – The Utah Department of Public Safety’s Driver License Division (DLD) announced today that Utah Community Credit Union (UCCU) will be the state’s first financial institution equipped […]

New Design to Help Prevent Fraud and Protect Identities What’s new The Utah Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Driver License Division will begin issuing a new, more secure driver license and identification card design. Utah’s new design advances fraud protection measures compared to the old design and improves the security of the physical license. DPS […]

A dispatch from the State Emergency Response Team’s monthly training Today at DPS, we joined the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) for their monthly training. Today’s meeting was the first time the team met in person since March 2, 2020. The SERT’s mission is simple to state but a challenge to execute: Prepare state government agencies […]

The Problem: Road Debris is All Too Common June 6th is Secure Your Load Day. Utah Highway Patrol Troopers know the dangers presented by unsecured loads because they see the consequences of road debris every day. Calls for road debris are one of the most frequent calls to which they respond. In fact, over the […]

For Immediate Release Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement happening May 17- June 6 Four crash survivors share why they now buckle up “even on short trips” SALT LAKE CITY (May, 12, 2021) — Next Monday begins Click it or Ticket, a two week increased seat belt enforcement period. During this time, over 40 […]

Commissioner Anderson joins Governor Cox, local legislators and law enforcement representatives to celebrate the opening of the new state crime lab in Cedar City. At a media event on Monday, April 26th, representatives from Utah state government, the Department of Public Safety, Iron County law enforcement agencies and Cedar City government gathered to commemorate the […]

For Immediate Release: Police Agencies throughout Salt Lake & Utah Counties to Participate in Covert Distracted Driving Enforcement What: Law Enforcement Officers across Salt Lake & Utah Counties will utilize an unmarked van with spotters sitting inside looking for violations of Utah’s distracted driving laws. Violations will be called out to nearby marked units who […]

Pilot Project Set to Begin for 100 Participants The Utah Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Driver License Division (DLD) is taking the first steps toward moving Utahns’ identities out of their wallets and into the 21st century with the initiation of a mobile driver license (mDL) and identification card pilot program. In addition to the […]

Although traffic in Utah decreased by 13% in 2020, traffic-related fatalities increased by 11%. DPS Commissioner Anderson spoke at a press event highlighting the fact that traffic fatalities increased on Utah’s roads in 2020, in spite of a significant reduction in traffic. “The truth is we need to look at our own behavior and be […]

“Smile If You Checked Yes” is the theme of press conference highlighting the partnership between DPS’ Driver License Division and DonorConnect Watch the full press conference from a Facebook Live recording below. At a virtual press conference, the Utah Department of Public Safety’s Driver License Division (DLD) and DonorConnect highlighted the “Smile Yes If You […]

The Utah Legislature recently passed and Governor Spencer J. Cox recently signed House Bill 60 (H.B. 60) Conceal Carry Firearms Amendments. This changes Utah’s law regarding concealed firearm permits (CFP). Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about this change. For more information about CFPs, visit the Bureau of Criminal Identification: https://bci.utah.gov TEXT ONLY […]

It’s Super Bowl 55, but the radio call that Officers, Deputies and Troopers hope they don’t have to make is “10-55”, that’s the police radio ten-code for a DUI in Utah. The National Football League’s Super Bowl LV is on Sunday, February 7, 2021, and it’s one of America’s favorite annual celebrations. Whether or not […]

National Cyber Security Alliance encourages individuals to “Own Your Privacy” by learning more about how to protect their valuable data online Data Privacy Day is a global effort — taking place annually on January 28th — that generates awareness about the importance of privacy, highlights easy ways to protect personal information and reminds organizations that […]

With snow, ice and winter weather back in the forecast, the Utah Highway Patrol is reminding drivers that it’s more important than ever to slow down and move over for vehicles on the shoulder. Winter in Utah has been mild so far, but snow is back in the forecast. Ice and snow means the roads […]

A year with many changes will end – and a new one will begin – with a constant: increased DUI enforcement WHAT: In a year when almost everything has been different, one thing that has remained the same is Utah law enforcement’s commitment to stopping impaired drivers. On this New Year’s Eve, just like previous […]

We have been made aware that a new scam is arriving on everyone’s phones right before Christmas. Scammers are attempting to gain information from individuals via spam text messages by referencing their supposed concealed firearm permit. Embedded in the text is a fraudulent link. Please, do not click any links. The Utah Bureau of Criminal […]

For Immediate Release Increased Impaired Driving Enforcement Happening in December  Increased DUI shifts aimed at preventing impaired driving this holiday season WHAT: Media are invited to interview Colonel Rapich and Lieutenant Street as they discuss enforcement efforts happening this holiday season. Utahns can expect to see an increase in statewide DUI enforcement from December 16th […]

Utah Highway Patrol Troopers need the public’s assistance – but it’s not for what you would normally expect. Instead of crime tips, they’re looking for donations for the Utah Food Bank. On Wednesday, Troopers will be at the Smith’s Marketplace in East Millcreek with their iconic beehive marked patrol cars in hopes to fill them […]

UPDATE: 11/30/20 Update here: https://t.co/3rLUNd7qpI — BLM Utah (@BLMUtah) November 30, 2020 Read the full statement here: https://www.blm.gov/press-release/illegally-installed-structure-taken-blm-public-lands-over-thanksgiving-weekend On November 18, 2020, the Utah Department of Public Safety Aero Bureau was working with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to conduct a count of big horn sheep in a portion of southeastern Utah. While on […]

Thanksgiving fire facts Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed by Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, and the day before Thanksgiving. In 2018, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,630 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving, the peak day for such fires. Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in cooking […]

Click it or Ticket seat belt enforcement happening November 16-29 WHAT:  Media are invited to hear from crash survivors Jillian White and Ty Bolton who credit their seat belts for saving their lives when a wrong-way driver hit their vehicle. The couple hopes their story will encourage travelers to buckle up this holiday season and […]

For Immediate Release: Beginning November 16th, Utah DPS is launching “Border to Border” seat belt enforcement with a Click It or Ticket Campaign aimed at holiday road travel. UHP partnering with neighboring states’ police to encourage Utahns to buckle up Salt Lake City, Utah – On November 16th, the Utah Highway Patrol will join law […]

This will be the third public deployment of the wireless emergency alert for an AMBER Alert since April This morning, the Utah Department of Public Safety will send a statewide wireless emergency alert to mobile devices due to an AMBER Alert that was issued this morning in Cedar City. The alert will feature the following […]

The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) Crime Lab’s Biology Team was nominated for and received the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Public Service.  The Governor’s Award for Excellence provides an opportunity for state employees to be recognized for outstanding public service and achievements that display dedication to the citizens of Utah. This talented and dedicated […]

STATS FROM THE OPERATION Read a story about the enforcement from KSL.com here: https://www.ksl.com/article/50040283/police-crack-down-on-distracted-driving-in-utah-county What: Utah County Law Enforcement Officers will utilize an unmarked van with spotters sitting inside looking for violations of Utah’s distracted driving laws. Violations will be called out to nearby marked units who will take appropriate enforcement action to educate or cite […]

POLICE REFORM: A Report to the Governor STATE OF UTAH – DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY OVERVIEW On June 11, 2020, following the untimely death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota, that sparked much civil unrest and precipitated the discussion on police reform in the United States, including the State of Utah, Governor Herbert directed Utah […]

You have the power to stop misinformation and disinformation. As part of a national initiative to protect the integrity and security of the 2020 election, the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is working with national partners to build resilience to election interferences, particularly information activities (e.g., disinformation, misinformation). The Department […]

Governor Herbert has declared October to be Cybersecurity Awareness Month in Utah. The line between our online and offline lives is indistinguishable. In these tech-fueled times, our homes, societal well-being, economic prosperity, and nation’s security are impacted by the internet. The overarching theme for Cybersecurity Awareness Month 2020 is “Do Your Part. #BeCyberSmart.”  The theme empowers […]

On Thursday, September 9th, Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commissioner Jess Anderson, members of the Utah Legislature and administration and staff from the State Crime Lab gathered to announce the completion of a milestone in the DNA testing of sexual assault kits. Utah is the 8th state to eliminate its backlog of sexual assault […]

On September 1, 2020, the Salt Lake Tribune published an editorial cartoon depicting columnist Pat Bagley’s interpretation of “The Deep Hate.” It is a representation of a law enforcement officer staring at the X-ray image of himself with the doctor pointing to an internal image of a hooded figure and stating, “Well, there’s your problem.” […]

Extra shifts will focus on impaired driving, seat belts, speeding and distracted driving.   Media Contact: Lt. Nick Street, Utah Highway Patrol – PIO nstreet@utah.gov, 801.554.5659     Labor Day weekend traditionally marks the end of summer. And while many people are making plans for travel and a final weekend of fun before fall arrives, we’re […]

From August 9th through August 11th, 2020, the Utah Highway Patrol Criminal Interdiction Team along with Agents from the State Bureau of Investigation conducted an Enforcement project on Interstate 80 in Tooele County.  The objective of the project was to provide a safe and secure environment for motorists on Interstate 80 through high volume traffic […]

  The third full week in August has been designated as Drowsy Driving Awareness Week in Utah, so we’ll be sharing information about the dangers of drowsy driving and how everyone can help prevent episodes of it. WHO During 2019, male drivers were two times more likely to drive drowsy than female drivers.  For the […]

Davis and Salt Lake County residents may be eligible for federal assistance Disaster assistance is now available for certain homeowners who: Live in Davis or Salt Lake counties Had earthquake damage in March Had damage not covered by insurance Disaster Assistance steps Register with FEMA at DisasterAssistance.gov or or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the […]

On Tuesday, July 14th, the Utah Driver License Division will launch a new appointment scheduler. Appointments will be available for all licensing services. Appointments will be required to ensure DLD offices safely manage the number of customers in its buildings to ensure physical distancing standards can be maintained. Appointments will reduce individuals’ wait times and […]

Home Safely What are your 4th of July plans? Our plans for the 4th include working extra shifts with the goal of helping to make sure everyone to gets where they’re going and gets home safely. Increased Enforcement Extra DUI, Seat Belt, Speed and Distracted Patrols Will Be Worked Statewide Over 240 Extra DUI Shifts […]

A fire that broke out overnight in Lehi early Sunday morning that burned 500 acres was caused by fireworks that were used outside of the legal dates of use. Even though fireworks are on sale through July 25, there are only certain dates they can be used. Fireworks are only allowed July 2-July 511 a.m. […]

Nothing says summer like a trip to the great outdoors and enjoying some time around a campfire. But with officials expecting an “above average” season for wildfire activity, and a recent increase in human-caused fires, the Utah State Fire Marshal’s Office is sharing some campfire safety tips. UNBELIEVABLE. Bountiful resident finds abandoned campfire burning at […]

After a day and night of violence, law enforcement partners are seeking information on unlawful activity during protests in Salt Lake City, Utah SALT LAKE CITY — Though Saturday’s protests started with peaceful intent, they quickly devolved into various acts of lawlessness, violence, destruction, and graffiti. It’s time to put things back in order.  Utah’s […]

As protests and violence have broken out across the United States, Salt Lake City was not immune. What was supposed to start as a peaceful protest devolved into violence and damage to public property, including the destruction of a Salt Lake City patrol vehicle and vandalism at the Salt Lake City Public Safety Building and […]

With school ending, national parks opening, virtual graduations being held and COVID-19 restrictions easing, we know a lot of people will be hitting the road this weekend and into the summer. To help make sure everyone gets where they’re going and back home safely, we wanted to remind everyone to make safe driving a priority. […]

“My advice to women considering a career in law enforcement? Do it…because you can have it all.” Trooper Kunz We want to recognize – in particular on Mother’s Day – our Utah Highway Patrol Troopers who are also mothers. Balancing being a state trooper with motherhood isn’t an easy thing. But these women have nerves […]

On May 4th, 2020, at about 11:45 am, Trooper Rick Morgan was conducting speed enforcement on I-15 near Mile Post 344 in the Ogden metropolitan area of Utah. He had just clocked a speeder at 88 MPH and pulled out to initiate a traffic stop on the violator. While making his way south on I-15 […]

For vehicle registrations, visit the Utah DMV website DMV.UTAH.GOV The Utah Department of Public Safety’s Driver License Division (DLD) is updating information regarding services it will be providing in connection with Governor Herbert’s announcement that the State’s COVID-19 level is changing from high risk (red) to moderate risk (orange). This change will allow the DLD to […]

Joe Dougherty has earned and accepted a new position within the Utah Department of Public Safety as Public Affairs Director. Mr. Dougherty will take over the position from Lt. Nick Street, the Utah Highway Patrol Public Information Officer who has served as the interim Public Affairs Director after the previous Director, Marissa Cote, accepted a […]

In the afternoon of Sunday, April 19th, 2020, Corporal Pollard was dispatched to a Mother duck and her ducklings disrupting traffic on I-15 northbound at 4700 S in Murray. He was able to get them corralled away from traffic and onto the other side of the freeway barrier. One of the ducklings fell into a […]

Following an AMBER Alert that did not include complete information early Sunday, the Department of Public Safety will pause the sending future AMBER Alerts through the Wireless Emergency Alert system. We are conducting a thorough review of the system. This means WEA will not be available for local law enforcement agencies to send AMBER Alerts […]

Mother Nature let us know in no uncertain terms this year that Utah is Earthquake Country. And she started the Shake Out with a shake! A 4.2 aftershock from the March 18th Magna quake happened at 7:41 am. With the March 18 earthquake in Magna and more than 1,000 aftershocks that have already happened, now is the […]

In April 2006, then-Lt. Gov. Gary Herbert created the Be Ready Utah campaign in response to his visit to Louisiana, which was ravaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. He wanted a Utah-based program to promote and increase preparedness within Utah. The Be Ready Utah program today resides within the Division of Emergency Management and as […]

Utah has established a unified command at the State Emergency Operations Center at the State Capitol. This is where the state gathers the most critical players in the same room to make sure the government is working as efficiently as possible. Right now, those critical players are the Utah Department of Health, supported by DPS’s […]

DPS’ Statewide Information and Analysis Center has seen a recent spike in gift card scams both in Utah and nationwide. This scam is typically a Business Email Compromise (BEC) variant, as cyber criminals will impersonate a senior level employee and ask a subordinate to hurry and get them a gift card because they are in […]

Utah’s Consumer Protection Division is reporting a significant uptick in spear fishing scams. These scams are more common and effective right now because people are home more than usual and also tuned in to helping others in serious financial need more than usual. WHAT ARE SPEAR FISHING SCAMS These scams are done via impersonation of […]

Gift cards are for gifts, NOT payments. Gift cards are a popular and convenient way to give someone a gift. They’re also a popular way for scammers to steal money from you. That’s because gift cards are like cash: if you buy a gift card and someone uses it, you probably cannot get your money back. […]

The Department of Public Safety wants to remind firearm owners that it is your responsibility to ensure that guns in your home are always stored where they are inaccessible to children, at-risk persons or other unauthorized persons. Hiding a gun in a closet, drawer or similar location is not safe storage. Safe storage is employing […]

In light of the current national health crisis, we will be allowing people with driver’s licenses that expired beginning March 1, and who are not able to renew their license, to use it as acceptable ID at checkpoints for 1 year after the expiration date, plus 60 days after the COVID-19 national emergency. Learn more […]

SALT LAKE CITY (March 16, 2020) — As part of the statewide efforts to limit the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) is encouraging Utahns to utilize the many online and mail-in services that the department provides.  Online services available from DPS include the following: Driver license and ID […]

What is spontaneous combustion? The ignition of a substance or body from the rapid oxidation of its own constituents, without heat from any external source. Spontaneous combustion or spontaneous ignition, as it is often called, is the occurrence of fire without the application of an external heat source. Due to chemical, biological, or physical processes, […]

2019 was another remarkable year for DPS. Read about the many activities of our 11 divisions in our annual report.  Below is the message from Commissioner Anderson that appears at the beginning of the report. As we end one decade and enter a new one, the future of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) is […]

The Driver License Division (DLD) has opened a new location in Utah County. The opening is a proactive measure by the Department of Public Safety to better serve the growing community and its needs. An existing office in Orem will remain open to serve residents in that area.  The new office is located at 2277 west […]

“My whole life changed from that night on.” Hillary Staska Hillary Staska’s life was forever changed when, just over four years ago, a family friend and Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) sergeant arrested her for driving under the influence of alcohol. Since her arrest, Hillary has been sober and made positive changes in her life. She […]

Be the good! Do the good! On Thursday, January 23, DPS’ Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Law Enforcement Academy held graduation exercises for Law Enforcement Officer Session #347. Thirty-eight new officers, troopers and deputies graduated and will join 16 different law enforcement agencies throughout the state. The agencies receiving new law enforcement officers from […]

Earlier this month, SBI started the second year of its training series for sex crimes investigators with a session that featured directors of both the state toxicology lab and the crime lab. Training attendees included representatives from the state crime lab, Primary Children’s Hospital Safe and Healthy Families, and officers from law enforcement agencies including […]

Do you have a story to share that can help others prepare? 4:30 a.m. I was asleep. But suddenly, I was awake. Lying in my bed and pulling a blanket over my head, as my room was shaken back and forth, as if a garbage truck were continuously ramming the house. I would have guessed […]

Department of Public Safety Commissioner Jess L. Anderson released the following statement on the passing of Chief William “Bill” O’Neal: “I was saddened to hear of Chief William “Bill” O’Neal’s passing. Chief O’Neal was a tremendous example of a leader in law enforcement and our partner in public safety. He was an example and friend […]

You can resolve to be ready for emergencies. 2020 is a great year to have clear vision, vision for the future. For us, the clearest vision for the future is one where all Utahns are resilient, or able to bounce back from disaster. The only way to bounce back from disaster is to take action […]

Class motto was “Kia Kaha!” a Maori phrase meaning “Stay Strong!” On Thursday, December 19th, DPS’ Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Law Enforcement Academy held graduation exercises for Law Enforcement Officer Session #346. Thirty-eight new officers and deputies graduated and will join 23 different law enforcement agencies throughout the state. The agencies receiving new […]

If you travel for the holidays, this time next year you’ll need to add a new item to your packing list: a gold star on your license. Starting October 1, 2020 any American traveling by air above the age of 18 will need a REAL ID- compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID […]

This is part of our #UtahHazards411 ongoing series to teach Utahns about the hazards around our state and how to stay safe. On average, 2.8 people die each year in avalanches. In 2018, 4 people lost their lives. It’s time to change that. We love the outdoors. It doesn’t matter what season. Utahns like to […]

It’s fun to decorate for the winter holidays, but holiday decorations can increase your risk for a home fire. As you deck the halls this season, be fire smart. Candle Safety  The top three days of the year for home candle fires are Christmas, New Year’s Day, and New Year’s Eve. Consider using battery-operated flameless candles. […]

Online Shopping is On The Rise According to the National Retail Federation, almost 70 million consumers shopped online on Cyber Monday alone. So Are Consumer Losses to Online Shopping Scams Better Business Bureau data shows that consumers lost $4.7 million in 2018 to online shopping scams. In 2017, the number was $2.3 million and in […]

More than 55 million travelers are making plans to kick off the holiday season with a trip of 50 miles or more away from home this Thanksgiving. This will be the second-highest Thanksgiving travel volume since AAA began tracking in 2000, trailing only the record set in 2005. Overall, an additional 1.6 million more people […]

345 – Protect the Hive! On Thursday, November 21st, DPS’ Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Law Enforcement Academy held graduation exercises for Law Enforcement Officer Session #345. The class’s motto was “345 – Protect the Hive!” New Ogden City Police Officer Williams addressed the motivation behind the motto in his class response – see […]

Buckle Face Heroes Help Highway Patrol Improve Seat Belt Use in Utah Click it or Ticket enforcement happening Nov. 27 – Dec. 1, 2019 WHAT:  Media are invited to sit back, relax and kick off Click it or Ticket with the Utah Highway Patrol by sharing the Department of Public Safety’s humorous Buckle Face campaign. […]

The Driver License Division (DLD) is opening a new location in Utah County. The opening is a proactive measure by the Department of Public Safety to better serve the growing community and its needs. An existing office in Orem will remain open to serve residents in that area. The Driver License Office in Springville will […]

During the week of November 10-16, the goal is to increase awareness of the dangers emergency responders face and remind drivers to slow down and move over. Emergency responders across the country work tirelessly to help save lives at the scene of traffic incidents. Every year hundreds of emergency responders experience close calls, or are […]

Each year, millions of children and adults alike celebrate Halloween, a holiday known for its sweet treats and spooky parties. Leave the dangerous driving for the witches on brooms, and commit to sober driving Halloween night, and every night. To help make sure everyone gets home safely, law enforcement officers throughout the state will be […]

BEWARE OF HAUNTING HALLOWEEN FIRE HAZARDS! We’ve got some tips to help keep your Halloween safe and fire-free. Decorations Can Ignite Keep all decorations away from open flames and other heat sources like light bulbs and heaters. Tell Children to Stay Away from Open Flames Be sure they know how to stop, drop and roll […]

This week – and every week, parents should have conversations with their teens about the important rules they need to follow to stay safe behind the wheel of a motor vehicle. National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 20-26, 2019, and is a great opportunity for parents to sit down with their teen drivers and […]

POST Class #344 learned first-hand what it’s like to work with K9 units through the Introduction to K9 course. Thanks to the K9 handlers and their K9 partners who conducted the training and showed the cadets the ropes! Davis County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Wennergren and K9 Nomos Lehi Police Department Sgt. Lewis and K9 Onyx […]

2019 Campaign This year’s FPW campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe. Did you know?In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes […]

The line between our online and offline lives is indistinguishable. In these tech-fueled times, our homes, societal well-being, economic prosperity and nation’s security are impacted by the internet. Under the overarching theme of  ‘Own IT. Secure IT. Protect IT.’, the 16th annual National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM) is focused on encouraging personal accountability and proactive behavior in […]

On Thursday, September 26th, DPS’ Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Law Enforcement Academy held graduation exercises for Law Enforcement Officer Session #344. The class’s motto was “344 – We Want More!” Forty-seven new officers, deputies and troopers graduated and will join 18 different law enforcement agencies throughout the state. The agencies receiving new law […]

For the eighth in its series of trainings for sex crimes investigators, the State Bureau of Investigation, through the support of the SAKI program and crime lab, invited pediatric forensic nurse Mary Lassiter to present information about Primary Children’s Hospital’s Center for Safe and Healthy Families. The presentation was designed to introduce investigators to who […]

Rail Safety Week (RSW) is being held in Sept. 22-28 to empower people to keep themselves safe near tracks and trains.  The Utah Department of Public Safety, Utah Operation Lifesaver, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Utah Transit Authority, the Utah Department of Transportation are working together to remind motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians about the lifesaving importance of […]

At Salem Hills High School, Troopers handed out Creamies to teens who were buckled up. With students headed back to school and getting behind the wheel, the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) has launched its Adopt-A-High School program for the new school year. This means  UHP Troopers are back on campus reminding teens about the importance […]

Utah POST instructor Sgt. Lauritzen brought Class 344 to the 9/11 Healing Field in Sandy City for a PT session designed not just to challenge the cadets physically, but to also give them a greater and deeper understanding of what it means to be a first responder and to be the person that people are counting […]

Traffic safety partners celebrate CPS Week with free car seat inspections  WHAT: Media are invited to the Salt Lake County Health Department’s car seat class to learn more about Child Passenger Safety (CPS) week and the importance of car seat checks.  For children under the age of 13 in the United States, motor vehicle crashes […]

Let’s start by talking about transportation After an earthquake… Where do you land airplanes with relief supplies and equipment? Ideally, Salt Lake City International Airport. But… that airport is in a high liquefaction zone. What if it’s not available? Hill Air Force Base is close, and its location is less susceptible to liquefaction.But… any supplies […]

Research Findings on Sexual Assault Cases: Implications for Investigators The August session of SBI’s monthly training for sex crimes investigators featured Dr. Julie Valentine from BYU who shared information about Sexual Assault Research Findings and their implications for investigators. Dr. Valentine began her presentation by discussing recent increases in SANE exams in Salt Lake and […]

Troopers working additional shifts to help make sure everyone gets where they’re going SAFELY.  As the sun sets on summer, we head into the Labor Day weekend, which will mark the end of 2019’s “100 Deadliest Days of Summer.” While fatality numbers are down from where they were last year at this time, UHP would […]

Increased DUI enforcement statewide as DPS encourages drivers to “Know Your Limits” SALT LAKE CITY (August 22, 2019) – Law enforcement agencies throughout Utah have been participating in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over crackdown on impaired drivers. As a result, Utahns can expect to see an increase in DUI enforcement now through […]

  The third full week in August has been designated as Drowsy Driving Awareness Week in Utah, so we’ll be sharing information about the dangers of drowsy driving and how everyone can help prevent episodes of it. Special thanks to Dr. Kristofer Mitchell from St. Mark’s Hospital for helping us make our Drowsy Driving Awareness […]

On July 30th, 2019, sisters, eight-month old, Emma, and twenty-month old, Darla Yonko, were taken from their Riverside, California home. On July 31st, 2019, Los Angles based FBI Agents with the Riverside Resident Agency – Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force asked State Highway Patrol Troopers to be on the lookout for a 1982 blue […]

One year ago today, the State of Utah received devastating news: One of our state’s firefighters, who had deployed to California to assist during their terrible fire season, had been killed in the line of duty while fighting the Mendocino Complex Fire. Our collective breaths stopped. We couldn’t believe it. Our friend, Draper Battalion Chief […]

Motivated, Dedicated and Ready to Lead On Thursday, August 1st, DPS’ Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)’ Law Enforcement Academy held graduation exercises for Law Enforcement Officer Session #343. The class’s motto was “Motivated, Dedicated and Ready to Lead!” and was usually shouted in response to the question “Class 343, what are we?” Thirty-three new […]

We’ve got the second edition of SBI’s Quarterly Highlights – we’ve got details about what agents have been doing to keep Utah safe. SBI Quarterly Highlights August 2019 We’re proud to share the first edition of a new publication – the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Quarterly Highlights. This edition includes information about recent activities […]

12th annual conference had a special focus on cold cases and school safety. DPS hosted the 12th annual Governor’s Public Safety Summit on July 30th and 31st at the Davis Convention Center in Layton. It was a record-breaking year for the summit, as it saw over 570 attendees for the first time. Commissioner Anderson delivered […]

Cadets receive exposure to working with K9 units POST recently held its Introduction to K9 class for Session #343 cadets. The 4-hour class is designed to give cadets exposure to working with K9 units. Following a short classroom session in which POST’s Sgt. Nope discussed why law enforcement agencies utilize K9s, the cadets headed to […]

UHP Explosive Detection K9s Train with Utah Bomb Squad Task Force Troopers Colvin and Elmer and their K9 partners Arros and Rocco recently participated in the Utah Bomb Squad Task Force’s Operation Canyon Thunder, one of two annual training sessions the task force hosts. The training brings together all eight bomb squads in Utah, the […]

The Facial Recognition System used by the Utah Statewide Information and Analysis Center (SIAC) is designed to be used in conjunction with an official law enforcement investigation. Law enforcement officers/agencies must provide information demonstrating an active investigation is ongoing. A case/department/intelligence report number and type of criminal investigation are required with every request for facial recognition […]

On July 4, 2019, a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck the area of Ridgecrest, California. There was a 5 percent chance that a larger earthquake could happen. On July 5, a magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck, showing that small percentages can still come to pass. These earthquakes are causing Utahns to ask what this means for Utahns. […]

Record-Breaking Number of Travelers According to AAA, a record-number of travelers – nearly 49 million – will be hitting the road for the 4th of July holiday. 41.4 million of those will be traveling by car. Home Safely Our goal is for everyone to get where they’re going and to get home safely. Last year […]

On June 26th, the Salt Lake County Mayor’s Office partnered with the Department of Public Safety’s Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) and over 60 volunteer attorneys from the Utah State Bar to host a second Expungement Day event. This event was the first in a two-step process to help qualifying individuals legally clear their criminal […]

Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Jess L. Anderson has successfully completed the 276th Session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.  The ten-week National Academy consists of top law enforcement executives from around the world who have the opportunity to discuss the latest trends, policies, professionalism and leadership tactics that are affecting today’s […]

We’d like to thank Hailey Hendricks and the Box Elder News Journal for a great article they recently published about our Box Elder Communications Center. Click here to read the article on the Box Elder News Journal website. Dispatchers do an important, stressful—sometimeshumorous—job for county’s public safety operations Below are photos taken by Hailey Hendricks […]

At the recent American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors (ASCLD) Annual Symposium held in St. Louis, MO, employees of the Utah DPS crime laboratory received national honors and recognition. ASCLD is a professional society of crime lab directors and leaders dedicated to providing excellence in forensic science through leadership and innovation. Jay Henry, Laboratory Director, […]

The Problem: Road Debris is All Too Common June 6th is Secure Your Load Day. Utah Highway Patrol Troopers know the dangers presented by unsecured loads because they see the consequences of road debris every day. Calls for road debris are one of the most frequent calls to which they respond. In fact, over the […]

On Thursday, May 22nd, DPS’ Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)’ Law Enforcement Academy held graduation exercises for Law Enforcement Officer Session #342. The class’s motto was “Three Forty Two – Back the Blue!” Thirty-eight new officers, deputies and troopers graduated and will join 21 different law enforcement agencies throughout the state. The agencies receiving […]

Click here or on the image below to access the report. 2018 was another remarkable year for DPS. Read about the many activities of our 11 divisions in our annual report. Below is the message from Commissioner Anderson that appears at the beginning of the report. The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) is woven […]

On Monday, May 20th, the Utah Highway Patrol will join law enforcement agencies throughout Utah and in its six neighboring states and across the United States in mobilizing the Click It or Ticket “Border to Border” (B2B) Operation, a one-day national seat belt awareness kickoff event. Law enforcement agencies will join forces to provide increased […]

On Wednesday, May 15th, the DPS Aero Bureau was recognized by Governor Gary R. Herbert with a Governor’s Award for Excellence for Outstanding Public Service. When he notified the Aero Bureau team members that they would be receiving the award, Colonel Rapich noted, “It is my honor to have the opportunity to inform you, and […]

The U.S. Attorney for Utah hosted its annual Police Week Law Enforcement Awards on May 16, 2019. At the ceremony, 21 local, state and federal agents and agencies were recognized. Two of those receiving recognition were DPS’ State Bureau of Investigation Chief Redd and the Crime Lab. Below are photos from the ceremony and descriptions […]

As you might or might not be aware of, Utah has a new law that will affect all motorists. Utah’s new motorcycle lane filtering law goes into effect on May 14, 2019. What Is Lane Filtering? Definition: “Lane filtering” means, when operating a motorcycle other than an autocycle, the act of overtaking and passing another […]

The Western States Seismic Policy Council (WSSPC) honored employees of Utah DPS and Salt Lake City Emergency Management for a mitigation program they created to help homeowners with seismic retrofits on homes at extreme risk for earthquakes. Brad Bartholomew, mitigation section manager from the DPS Division of Emergency Management, and Audrey Pierce, manager of Salt […]

SBI held its fourth in a year-long series of special trainings for sex crimes investigators. This session featured Marlesse Jones, from the Utah Prosecution Council, discussing Trauma Informed Interviewing. Jones started by sharing common cultural myths about rape and then debunking them with statistics and information. These cultural perceptions about rape add to the challenges […]

We’ve received a lot of questions related to the earthquakes in Bluffdale in February and March. If you have a question, you can text it to 43362. If you’d like earthquake preparedness information delivered to your cell phone, text UtahQuake to 43362 How bad will an earthquake be? It’s a long answer with a number […]

Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) is a campaign to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to prevent it. This year SAAM is celebrating its 18th anniversary with the theme I Ask. One month alone isn’t enough to solve the serious and widespread issue of sexual violence. However, the attention April generates […]

On Thursday, April 18th, DPS’ Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST)’ Law Enforcement Academy held graduation exercises for Law Enforcement Officer Session #341. Thirty-seven new officers, deputies and troopers graduated and will join 16 different law enforcement agencies throughout the state. The agencies receiving new law enforcement officers from session #341 are as follows:  Emery […]

Techs learn how to make sure you’re protecting your most precious cargo DPS’ Highway Safety Office held a National Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Certification Program training course in April. This course certifies individuals as CPS technicians who learn how to choose the right car seat for children based on their size and how to correctly […]

Mother Nature let us know in no uncertain terms this year that Utah is Earthquake Country. With hundreds of earthquakes that have already happened, now is the time for Utahns to join the only statewide earthquake drill in Utah since 2012. The Great Utah ShakeOut is a day of special events for families, workplaces, church […]

Photos available below The Utah Department of Public Safety is supporting efforts on the ground by local responders from various jurisdictions after a Union Pacific train derailed Saturday in Juab County. We are aware of spilled propane at this time. Cleanup efforts are expected to last into next week. No injuries were reported in the […]

On Tuesday, March 12th, DPS’ State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) held its third in a series of monthly trainings for sex crimes investigators. This session featured scientists from DPS’ state crime lab who presented information about forensic DNA, the processes involved in the testing of DNA samples and the results law enforcement agencies will receive […]

This winter, we’ve only really had to share the road with snow. As the temperature rises, more people are ready to get outside of their houses and outside of their cars. Which means we’ll be seeing more motorcyclists, pedestrians and bicyclists out on our roads. Because they don’t have safety features like air bags and […]

March is Flood Safety Awareness Month Contact: Joe DoughertyPublic information officerDPS – Division of Emergency Managementjdougherty@utah.gov801-538-3738 With spring just around the corner, and floods threatening southern Utah, Utah Gov. Gary R. Herbert has declared March as Flood Safety Awareness Month (download the declaration here). This is a chance to dispel some of the myths about […]

A message from Commissioner Jess L. Anderson DPS family,Today, on National Employee Appreciation Day, I want to thank each of you for the many different ways you serve our great state. One of the best parts of my job as Commissioner is getting to meet more of you as I work with each of our […]

On Wednesday, February 20th, the Utah Department of Public Safety’s Dive Team hosted the Riverside County (CA) Sheriff’s Office for an extreme training in ice diving at Deer Creek Reservoir. Twenty members from Riverside County SO and DPS’ 10 man team practiced diving and became certified in the icy waters. In the past, the Riverside […]

On Friday, 24 new Utah Highway Patrol Troopers graduated from their training and took their oath of office. They will start working with their Field Training Officers as soon as Saturday. This class represents the first UHP only and UHP run academy since POST was created in 1967. Their 21 weeks of training began on […]

On Tuesday, DPS’ State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) hosted the second in a year-long series of trainings for sex crime investigators. SBI’s Chief Brian Redd welcomed the attendees, who represented multiple agencies including: South Salt Lake PD, West Valley City PD, UTA Police, University of Utah PD, Tooele City PD, Cottonwood Heights PD and DPS. […]

The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) helicopter was requested by officials at Zion National Park to hoist out a hiker near an area known as the Subway. The individual had been hiking with a companion when he became stuck in some sort of quicksand. They were unable to free him so his companion hiked […]

With just two months to go until the annual Great Utah ShakeOut earthquake drill, we wanted to address two of the questions we get most often: Why do you drop, cover and hold on? And what if you can’t? Why drop, cover and hold on? One of the myths about earthquakes is that they cause […]

One was a magnitude 3.2 and the other was magnitude 3.7. Many Utahns in the southern part of the Salt Lake Valley and northern part of Utah County felt two earthquakes that happened around 5 a.m. today, February 15, 2019. This is one of our regular reminders that Utah is earthquake country. We typically have […]

Did you know that Utah is consistently in the top 5 states with regard to the number of people who have registered as organ, eye and tissue donors? And that over 99 percent of the people who registered as organ donors last year did so on their driver license or state ID card? On Valentine’s […]

This article is part of our #UtahHazards411 series, to help Utahns understand what hazards exist and why they need to prepare for them. Our Division of Emergency Management recently conducted a Twitter poll that asked followers this question: What is the most common hazard that becomes a natural disaster? Here are the poll results with […]

In January 2009, an altercation between two rival gangs occurred on the west side of Salt Lake City. After the altercation, Cesar Ramirez and his brother, who were riding inside a green Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Matthew Day and two others, who were inside a black Nissan Maxima, continued their argument onto I-15. A short […]

Public comment on the plan is open until March 6, 2019. This is part of our ongoing series of posts about natural hazards in Utah and what you need to know about them. Join the conversation on social media with the hashtag #UtahHazards411. The State of Utah Hazard Mitigation Plan 2019 update is required to […]

There are roughly more than 400 cold cases throughout Utah which include homicides, missing persons, and unidentified deceased persons. Last legislative session, Utah lawmakers passed Senate Bill 160 which required all law enforcement agencies in Utah to enter their cold cases and missing persons cases into the database. The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) […]

After tireless work and the public’s help, agents with the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) have helped murdered cold case victim Lina Reyes-Geddes reunite posthumously with her family. In November, DPS investigators were able to identify the 1998 cold case victim as Lina Reyes-Geddes of Ohio. Since last year, Lina’s sister, who lives in […]

Data Privacy Day, January 28th, is led by the National Cyber Security Alliance and is the signature event in a greater privacy awareness and education effort. Year-round, NCSA educates consumers on how they can own their online presence and shows organizations how privacy is good for business. NCSA’s privacy awareness campaign is an integral component […]

Senior Forensic Scientist Manager Jennifer McNair traveled to San Juan, Puerto Rico, with a group of other  laboratory directors, leaders and attorneys general from around the country to assist the Puerto Rico Bureau of Forensic Sciences with the enhancement and restoration of their forensic science services.  The National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) and the […]

This article is part of our #UtahHazards411 series, to help Utahns understand what hazards exist and why they need to prepare for them. We recognize that shopping malls and other crowded places pose a special challenge in planning for emergencies, such as for an active shooter. The gang-related shooting at Fashion Place Mall on Sunday, […]

This is part of an occasional series to help Utahns make the best decisions when disaster strikes. Join the conversation on social media with the hashtag #DoingGoodInDisasters. It happens all the time And it happens because we are good people with good intentions. But imagine that a disaster hits a far-off place, such as Texas […]

In 2007, the Utah Legislature created the Disaster Recovery Restricted Account, or DRRA, to help protect state agency budgets should they have unexpected expenses while responding to an emergency. The fund also allows Utah to cover expenses up front for agents of the state deploying on our behalf. If the Utah Division of Emergency Management […]

Each year, about 1 million Utahns practice what to do in an earthquake by joining our statewide earthquake drill. What will you do with 99 days? We get it. Sometimes, it doesn’t seem like Utah is going to have the devastating earthquake that we’ve been talking about for years. Sometimes, it seems like people have […]

The Department of Public Safety’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) released new operation totals since August 2017. The numbers below are a reflection of work by SBI agents since August 2017 to December 31, 2018. Physical Custody Arrests: 484 Drug Dealers Arrests: 387 Federal Indictments: 7 Search Warrants Executed: 43 Heroin: 2,021 Grams/4.6 Pounds Methamphetamine: […]

It’s officially winter and the forecast calls for some really low temps. You want to make sure you bundle your kids up to keep them warm. But did you know coats can interfere with proper car seat fit? Though thick outerwear will keep your children warm, it can interfere with the proper harness fit on […]

The 2017 Utah Legislature passed HB155 “Driving Under the Influence and Public Safety Revisions.” The bill takes effect on December 30, 2018. The following information may be utilized to address inquiries about the new, lower BAC limit. Here are some frequently asked questions presented to our Department.  Below you can download a PDF of the […]

Governor Gary Herbert and Lt. Governor Spencer Cox joined Department of Public Safety (DPS) employees as they officially welcomed their new leadership. This week new administration, including newly appointed Commissioner Jess L. Anderson and two new Deputy Commissioners, took the oath of office at the Utah Capitol. More than a dozen DPS employees representing several areas […]

This investigative review by the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) was conducted upon request by the Utah Governor’s Office to examine the interactions and handling of an administrative case involving Melvin Shawn Rowland within the criminal justice system. This independent investigation involved a comprehensive review of multiple agencies, policies, systems and procedures.  Below is […]

It’s not just the responsibility of governments or CEO’s of large corporations that need to worry about cybercrime. Everyone has a part to play including the average person with a smart-phone. Five tips on cybersecurity for the average person. Top Tips Keep a clean machine. Regularly scan devices for viruses, spyware, keep software up to […]

Pardon us while we brag about some of our awesome employees who did great work on behalf of Utah in 2018. 🙂

Alaska showed its resilience in the face of a 7.0 earthquake.  Like many, we feared the worst when we heard that a magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck near the city of Anchorage, Alaska, Nov. 30. But as the hours ticked by, we received no reports of fatalities and only few injuries. The Verge reports how Alaska’s […]

Christmas tree fires present real risk towards family and friends. Tips to help keep you and your family safe this season.

Trooper Jesse Williams was recently honored by the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (RMHIDTA) as Outstanding Interdiction Officer of the year. Trooper Williams has been a law enforcement officer for over 16 years, and has been a trooper with the Utah Highway Patrol for approximately six years. Since Trooper Williams has been a […]

After tireless work and the public’s help, agents with the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) have made a major breakthrough in their 1998 cold case investigation. Investigators have identified the victim as Lina Reyes-Geddes of Ohio. For the last 20 years the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) have actively worked on a homicide case […]

YOU AND 54 MILLION OTHERS AAA says that if you’re planning to travel more than 50 miles away from home this Thanksgiving weekend, you’ll be one of more than 54 million Americans making a similar journey. UDOT expects increased southbound traffic on Wednesday between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., while northbound traffic should be heavier between […]

The Utah Department of Public Safety’s crime laboratory was established in the 1970s to provide criminalistic laboratory service to federal, state, and local law enforcement, prosecuting attorneys and public defenders. The lab is the only full-service forensic lab in the State of Utah, serving over 175 agencies representing Utah’s population. The lab is a physical evident […]

Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement will increase during Thanksgiving holiday travel period.  No one ever leaves home thinking they’ll be involved in a crash. But anything can happen at any time, and the best way to help make sure you’ll get home safely is to buckle up every single time you get in […]

Earlier this week the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) received information regarding a possible school shooting threat. The threat which was initially found by a young woman in Davis County on Snapchat. Garfield County Sheriff’s Office was initially contacted due to the school that was named in the threat. After review, it was found […]

  Halloween means trick-or-treating fun, but it also means everyone needs to be extra aware of pedestrian safety. We’ve got some tips for trick-or-treaters as well as drivers to help make sure everyone gets home safely. Walk Safely Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Look left, right and left again when […]

To help increase awareness of Utah’s Move Over law and the importance of giving emergency vehicles the room they need to work safely, the Utah County Section of the Utah Highway Patrol will be conducting a “Move Over” Enforcement and Education Project the week of October 22nd. The project aims to educate the public of […]

Though the global ShakeOut earthquake drill is today, Utah’s official day in in April. Here’s why. When Utah signed onto the Great ShakeOut movement in 2010 with plans to hold our first drill in 2012, we knew we were doing something a little bit different. California, where the movement was born in 2008, has always […]

Picture this scenario. It’s all too real: Utah’s past hot and dry summers have led to active wildfire seasons. Though we have lost many homes, many homes and businesses have survived wildfires due to heroic firefighting efforts, wise planning and some great luck. Imagine the horror many face when it turns out the wildfire burn […]

WARNING: THE IMAGES BELOW MAY BE FOUND DISTURBING. Agents with the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) are asking for the public’s help identifying a murder victim in a cold case homicide from April 1998. The body of the unidentified female was found by a passerby on the side of SR-276 milepost 8, approximately 38 […]

During the recent fires that have devastated our neighbors in Utah County, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) has helped residents  evacuate their homes and safely move livestock to a safer location. Our Department is humbled to provide residents assistance during the Pole Creek and Bald Mountain Fires. We are also proud to work alongside […]

Ahead of Child Passenger Safety Week, technicians will demonstrate how to correct the five most common mistakes parents make when traveling with their children in car seats.  To kick off Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Week, law enforcement, firefighters and health officials are encouraging parents to make sure their kids are safe in the car. Motor […]

On August 8th, 2018, Utah Highway Patrol troopers were called out to a reported rape near the rest area off of northbound I-15 in Kaysville. Upon arrival, State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) agents were called in to assist with the rape investigation involving a semi-truck driver and a female he originally came in contact with […]

Our Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) team has worked hard to gather and confirm 2017 crime data from 130 law enforcement agencies across the state.  This report gives a glimpse into the state of crime in our communities and it is important to our Department that this report be released in a timely manner each […]

Rules to follow after a minor crash and why it can save a life Troopers and first responders are willing to put their lives on the line to protect the lives of those in need, however, many times the risk posed to first responders is unnecessary. This is why the Utah Highway Patrol wants to […]

In May of 2018 the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released the IC3 2017 Internet Crime Report. The IC3 stands for the Internet Crimes Complaint Center. It was established in 2000 and has received a total of 4,063,933 complaints since its inception.  The IC3 is a clearinghouse for criminal Internet activity and receives over 800 […]

With the rest of Utah, the Division of Emergency Management is mourning the loss of Draper Battalion Chief Matt Burchett. An expert wildland firefighter, Matt deployed to California earlier this month to support a state in need. He was a leader of one of the two Utah task forces deployed under the Emergency Management Assistance […]

A group of 8 motorcyclists were traveling east on SR-89. One of the riders remembered that he forgot a bag at the local McDonald’s restaurant so he caught up to the front riders and let them know that he was turning back. He told them he would catch up after he picked up his bag. […]

Each year the Utah Department of Public Safety’s Forensic Services Bureau offers investigators from agencies across Utah and neighboring states the chance to further their knowledge on crime scenes. This year, investigators from Bountiful Police, Centerville Police, Davis County Sheriff’s Office, Cottonwood Heights Police, Murray, Police, American Fork Police, Grantsville Police and the Idaho State […]

SITUATIONAL REPORT: ATTEMPTS INVOLVING CORRECT USERNAMES AND PASSWORDS IN UTAH The Statewide Information and Analysis Center (SIAC) has received an increase of complaints of phishing scams involving correct usernames and passwords listed in the email. Summary The Statewide Information and Analysis Center (SIAC) has received an increase of complaints of spear-phishing scams involving the victim’s […]

We are two weeks into our coordinated enforcement surge on North Temple.  We have been working with Salt Lake City Police (SLCPD) in attempt to curtail the distribution of narcotics and other criminal activity in the area. State Bureau of Investigation agents and Utah Highway Patrol troopers from the Department of Public Safety and officers from […]

SANTA CLARA — The aged Laub Dam, little more than 20 feet high, likely never prompted much thought in the community before Sept. 11, 2012. The earthen structure provided flood control and served as a walkway to get from nearby neighborhoods to Snow Canyon Middle and High schools, as well as a park. More than three […]

A Message from the Fire Marshal: As we quickly approach our fireworks season, I would like to commend the citizens of Utah in how they have responsibly discharged and enjoyed their fireworks. I would remind everyone as they celebrate the independence of our country and the coming of the Pioneers to our mountain valleys, that they […]

SALT LAKE CITY — The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Utah Department of Public Safety (UDPS), and the U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah, announced the formation of the Utah Crime Gun Intelligence Center at a meeting today. The formation of the center will bring together cutting-edge technologies and the resources […]

Today marks the official first day of summer. We know a lot of people will be hitting the road for vacation this summer, and just wanted to share some safe summer driving tips. Utah’s 100 deadliest days started over Memorial Day weekend, and to date, there have been 25 fatalities on Utah’s roads. We want […]

The DPS Dive Team is utilized by agencies across the State of Utah and neighboring states. Due to the equipment assets and the unique diver skill sets, the dive team is often called upon to provide assistance to aquatic homicide investigations and accidental drownings. The dive team performs these functions at no cost to county […]

The Department of Public Safety’s Communications Bureau is looking to hire its next batch of emergency dispatchers to work in its Salt Lake Communications Center. How does a $5,000.00 signing bonus sound? Would you like to have a job that makes a difference? Would you like to help the public and first responders? Would you like […]

According to a recent study by WalletHub, Utah was ranked as the 4th safest state in the United States. In order to help families find the most secure places to settle down, WalletHub compared the 50 states across 48 key metrics. The data set ranges from assaults per capita to unemployment rate to total loss […]

Utah families will have an opportunity to participate in dozens of family friendly activities during the annual Family Safety Fair on Thursday, June 7th from 3-7 p.m. Presented by the Department of Public Safety (DPS), the safety fair will feature free family activities, safety demonstrations, and local favorites and prizes. The fair will take place at […]

The Department of Public Safety (DPS), along with the Commission on Criminal and Justice (CCJJ) and Rep. Angela Romero will unveil the implementation of House Bill 200. The bill, which was passed in the 2017 legislative session, provided funding to create a statewide sexual assault kit tracking system. The tracking system provides sexual assault survivors […]

U.S. Attorney John Huber and his office representing the District of Utah recognized the Department of Public Safety’s troopers and agents for their efforts on drug trafficking in Utah and Nationwide. “The Utah Highway Patrol has exceeded the Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (RMHIDTA) expectations for the last five years. According to RMHIDTA […]

Historically, fatal crashes nearly double in the summer compared to the rest of the year. That’s why the days between Memorial and Labor Day get called ‘The 100 Deadliest Days.’ If we can get Utahns to improve their driving, walking, riding behaviors this summer, we will undoubtedly save lives. You can protect yourself and those […]

Oscar will turn 5 years old on June 13th and he has a lot to show for himself over the last 5 years.  Oscar grew up behind prison walls in Ohio and was raised by a federal inmate before making his debut in Utah, where he now serves as a Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives […]

The eleventh annual Public Safety Summit was hosted by Governor Gary Herbert Wednesday. Bringing hundreds of members of law enforcement, EMS, fire, health care and administrators from all over Utah. The summit discusses ideas and ways to improve public safety by bringing professionals from multiple disciplines of public safety together for two days. This summit […]

Utah Governor Gary Herbert and Lieutenant Governor Spencer J. Cox presented awards during the Governor’s Award for Excellence ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda on May 17, 2018.  The Governor’s Award for Excellence provides an opportunity for state employees to be recognized for outstanding public service and achievements that display dedication to the citizens of Utah. The […]

   Six States Join In One Concentrated Effort to Save Lives Border to Border Operation will focus on seat belt use across state lines On Monday, May 21st, the Utah Highway Patrol will join law enforcement agencies in its five neighboring states and across the United States in mobilizing the Click It or Ticket “Border […]

“Every year, the majority of fire deaths in North America happen at home,” says Utah Home fire Sprinkler Coalition Chair Don Buckley. “Simply put, that’s unacceptable. There is a solution and it starts with education.” The Utah Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition is taking part in a North America-wide campaign May 19th initiated by the National […]

On Saturday April 21, 2018 the family of fallen Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) Trooper Eric Ellsworth participated in the 6th annual trail ride in Moab, Utah. The annual ride is to honor the fallen and to help them in a very small way, their families further a part of their lives in the form of […]

State Bureau of Investigation Agents Roy Contreras and Josh Workman received special recognition at the US District courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. The pair were presented with the United States Attorney’s Award for their efforts in disrupting drug operations as a part of the Operation Rio Grande Drug Task Force. Colonel Brian Redd, who […]

Commissioner Keith D. Squires, Colonel Brian Redd and Major Tyler Kotter recently attended the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA) conference in Phoenix, Arizona on May 7-9, 2018. The majority of states sent leaders who oversee state-level criminal investigative agencies to Phoenix for three days of training on cutting edge topics in law enforcement […]

A man was arrested after leading UHP Troopers on a short chase on I-15 in southern Utah. The chase ultimately ended after the SUV collided with a semi-truck. At around 3:30 p.m. Utah Highway Patrol Troopers received reports of a suspicious vehicle traveling southbound on I-15 near Cedar City.  A female passenger inside the black […]

Our Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI) team has worked hard to gather and confirm 2016 crime data from 130 law enforcement agencies across the state. This report gives a glimpse into the state of crime in our communities and our goal is to learn from the data provided and move in the right direction.   […]

As the Utah Department of Public Safety we serve as a resource for law enforcement agencies across the state of Utah. From our Utah Highway Patrol troopers assisting at accident scenes to our agents with the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) who provide assistance when called upon by local law enforcement agencies. Whether it is […]

Utah Highway Patrol’s Lt. Todd Royce was recently featured on Fox 13’s ‘3 Questions with Bob Evans’. Their conversation included the bravery troopers have when stopping wrong-way drivers, family life and how to really get out of a ticket. To read the original story, click here.

This week Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner Keith Squires will be in San Francisco, California for the 2018 RSA Conference. RSA brings the world’s top experts in cybersecurity together. There, Commissioner Squries will participate in a panel discussion on ‘Emerging Strategic and Structural Trends in State Cybersecurity’. Other panelist include Timothy Blute with the […]

The ShakeOut is back. In 2012, Utah embarked on an earthquake preparedness campaign to help Utahns get ready for the big one. Following the example of California and other states, Utah joined the ShakeOut movement. Since that time, millions of people have participated in the Great Utah ShakeOut, the only statewide emergency drill in Utah. […]

Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Highway Patrol troopers seized more than 300 pounds of marijuana on I-80 Monday morning. At approximately 7:30 a.m., a Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) trooper stopped a pickup truck on I-80 at milepost 158 for making an improper lane change. After speaking to the driver of the vehicle, the UHP trooper […]

*The images in this post were taken at a mock car crash and do not depict real victims.* The Utah Highway Patrol and local partners recently staged a mock car crash at Springville High School to give students closer look at the consequences of distracted driving. The head-on car crash included fake blood, broken windows, […]

A new Utah Highway Patrol unit is trying to build relationships with the homeless in the Rio Grande neighborhood, but its attention to detail also recently helped reunite a man with the family who had been searching for him for the past two years. Bonnie Kunz, one of five outreach troopers now working the area, […]

We’re happy to celebrate National Public Safety Telecommunications Week. Dispatchers are a vital component to public safety and we’re grateful for the service they provide. Please join the Department of Public Safety this week in recognizing the men and women who work behind the scenes, often without recognition, to answer our 911 calls, dispatch our first […]

With the recent school shootings in Florida, safety and what can be done is being talked about across the country. Department of Public Safety Commissioner Keith Squires sat down with KSL Radio’s Amanda Dickson and Director of Child and Adolescent Therapy at Wasatch Family Therapy Clair Mellenthin and Former Chief of Staff to Senator Mike Lee/Current […]

Sgt. Cade Brenchley, a second generation trooper, with the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) will speak to the media for the first-time since he was struck by a vehicle on Sunday in Sardine Canyon. Sgt. Brenchley was responding to multiple slide offs in the canyon when he was struck from behind by a vehicle driving on […]

It only took five days for an invisible criminal to destroy Jake’s life. Jake was a promising young college student. Generous, thoughtful and a prankster. The Utah native met what he thought was a girl online. She asked for a nude photo. He sent her one. And that’s when his nightmare began. Such cases underscores […]

This could have been much worse. We’d like to recognize trooper Stanford who put his life on the line to possibly save others. When dispatchers broadcast an attempt to locate a wrong way driver to our troopers, it’s a scary situation. But training prepares our troopers for unpredictable circumstances like these. The dash cam footage in […]

SALT LAKE CITY – A four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Salt Lake City charges James Musa Gama, age 39, of Salt Lake City, with two counts of possession of the synthetic cannabinoid commonly known as “spice” and two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. […]

Department of Public Safety Commissioner Keith Squires has joined the Utah School Safety Commission along with multiple non-partisan volunteers, who bring years of expertise in a wide range of disciplines. The Utah School Safety Commission is dedicated to finding policies to work on one of the most pressing issues the nation is facing: gun violence […]

Our Department’s Aero Bureau is a crucial component to law enforcement and search & rescue operations across Utah. From Logan to remote parts of Garfield county, the team of tactical flight officers and pilots are courageously assisting in search and rescue operations and law enforcement activities.  As the only law enforcement helicopter in the state […]

The 2017 DPS Annual Report is now available! We are excited to highlight the work done by our 11 divisions and our multiple special units during 2017. It was an unprecedented year. We are excited to continue the forward progress in the year to come.      

As part of Operation Rio Grande, Department of Public Safety (DPS) State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Agents served their 23rd search warrant. The warrant was served at a residence in the Glendale area of Salt Lake City on the morning of Tuesday, February 27. Agents became aware of a group of Honduran nationals who were […]

Storm totals from 12:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 18 to 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 20: Utah and Salt Lake Counties: 552 Davis County: 65 Weber County: 65 Combined total of 682 *No fatalities or major injuries Four UHP trooper patrol cars hit One UDOT IMT unit hit The dash cam video below shows UHP Sgt. […]

The Department of Public Safety’s Cyber Crime Unit is made up of agents from two of its divisions: State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Statewide Information and Analysis Center (SIAC). In partnership with the FBI, DPS agents work together as one to combat cyber crimes that affect businesses, state entities and members of our […]

The Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Operation Rio Grande Task Force and the DPS Criminal Interdiction team has compiled the following narcotics seized since the start of Operation Rio Grande on August 14. Below is a six month update of the seizures by DPS agents: Operation Rio Grand Task Force Seizures Spice: 75 jars (10 […]

The Department of Public Safety and Commissioner Keith Squires were highlighted by the New York Times for their efforts in cyber crime. Read more about why it is critical for businesses and the public to report cyber offenses. “Utah’s chief law enforcement officer was deep in the fight against opioids when he realized that a […]

In January, the Department of Public Safety’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) Narcotics Agents received information related to a Honduran drug trafficking organization responsible for the distribution of heroin and cocaine around the Salt Lake Valley.  Agents were able to identify six subjects associated with the drug trafficking group. After further investigation, SBI Agents were […]

3-D technology like the FARO scanner are giving investigators the upper hand when it comes to analyzing crime scenes. Evidence gathering and documentation used to take hours, even days. Now it takes minutes. The FARO scanner allows DPS’ State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) agents to virtually return to the scene and collect data that wasn’t initially picked […]

 On Wednesday, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) released preliminary traffic fatality numbers for 2017 and kicked off a new safety campaign aimed at reducing distracted driving.  In 2017 there were 273 lives lost on Utah’s roads. That’s a 2.8% decrease in roadway fatalities from 2016 (281). These fatalities involved: […]

The Utah Department of Public Safety, Statewide Information and Analysis Center (SIAC), is supporting the Park City Police Department in its security planning and preparations for the 2018 Sundance Film Festival. Additionally, the SIAC will remain engaged in the security operations throughout the entirety of the festival, providing ongoing criminal and counterterrorism intelligence assistance to aid […]

Family, friends and peers joined Commissioner Keith Squires and Colonel Michael Rapich as they promoted five fine men to the ranks of Colonel, Major, Captain and Sergeant during the first promotional ceremony of 2018. Commissioner Squires appointed Major Brian Redd to the rank of Colonel to serve as the third Deputy Commissioner at the Department […]

If life were about “looking the part,” then a Belgian Malinois would almost always win the role of police K-9. The “strong and silent” type would routinely be typecast into roles like searching for suspects and sniffing for drugs. Sometimes, though, officers are in need of a little less fight and a little more finesse. […]

The Department of Public Safety’s Cyber Crime Unit is made up of agents from two of its divisions: State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Statewide Information and Analysis Center (SIAC). In partnership with the FBI, DPS agents work together as one to combat cyber crimes that affect businesses, state entities and members of our […]

In November 2015, in response to heightened security concerns surrounding terrorism worldwide, Governor Herbert directed the Utah Department of Public Safety to conduct a review of the federal screening process for refugees and security procedures related to refugee resettlement in Utah. This process led to a partnership between Refugee Services Office (RSO) and Public Safety, […]

In 2017 the Department of Public Safety’s State Bureau of Investigation’s (SBI) Major Crimes Unit conducted various investigations from cyber crime to assessing threats against individuals and critical infrastructure. SBI Agents also served as liaisons for new refugees in Utah. Here are 2017 year highlights for the unit: During 2017 the State Bureau of Investigation-Evidence […]

On December 31, 2017 at approximately 11:00 p.m. a Greyhound bus traveling westbound from Green River went off the right shoulder of interstate 70 near mile marker 113. The bus traveled into a steep wash and came to rest approximately 200 feet off the interstate. The bus was occupied by 12 passengers and the driver. A 13 […]

SALT LAKE CITY – The Department of Public Safety (DPS)  along with the Utah Poison Control Center (UPCC) are issuing a warning regarding a product labeled as “CBD” oil that is being sold at area smoke shops.  Since early November, the UPCC has received numerous calls about people becoming ill after using the oil. Adverse […]

What would you do if you heard gunshots? Do you know? What would you do if you saw someone acting suspiciously?  Watch this video for tips that could save your life. We hear about it on the news all the time. Whether it is a terrorist or a disgruntled, troubled soul, shootings happen.   Chances […]

“All crimes, all threats, all hazards.” (SALT LAKE CITY)— The Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Troopers and Agents had a busy year across the state of Utah. From arresting homicide suspects to seizing hundreds of pounds of drugs; there is no crime, threat or hazard DPS officers do not come across. In 2017, the Department […]

Law enforcement will increase DUI patrols December 15th – January 1st to help everyone get home safely In 2015 a poor choice changed their life in an instant when a drunk driver hit and killed their 27 year-old son Michael. They don’t want other families to endure the same pain. “This did not need to […]

Agents with the Utah Department of Public Safety and multiple law enforcement agencies from across the Salt Lake Valley collaborated on an operation to take down criminal activity across the Salt Lake Valley. This operation was based on direct intelligence gathered through Operation Rio Grande. On the morning of December 12 officers from DPS’ State […]

Please be advised that the Utah Driver License Division will never call or text asking for payment or private information.  All notifications are done through the mail. The Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Driver License Division is continuing to hear from citizens who have received unsolicited text messages from a phone number claiming  a “refund […]

Boynton Family donation to Festival of Trees helps raise $5,001 for Primary Children’s Hospital Charity Care SANDY — Walt Disney helped the world understand the importance of creativity and imagination. That statement was the inspiration for the Boynton Family to transform a used armoire into a delightful puppet playhouse, a place where imaginations can be […]

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly. Here are some tips from the Utah Fire Marshal’s Office to keep you and your family safe this holiday season. PICKING THE TREE Choose a tree with fresh, green needles […]

Gavin Ritter, 13, of Syracuse, spent five months selling pizza cards, doing service projects and collecting donations, with a goal of raising $1,500. He ultimately totaled $3,200. Two Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) K-9s were the beneficiaries of his hard work. These efforts were part of Gavin’s Eagle Scout project. “I just like dogs, and I […]

In the month of November, agents from the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) have arrested multiple known drug dealers in connection to intelligence gathered during Operation Rio Grande. SBI agents arrested a local drug dealer and seized five pounds of methamphetamine likely destined for the Rio Grande area. Additionally, agents executed a search warrant in […]

For the past 14 weeks, the Department of Public Safety’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) agents have been working diligently to break up the vast drug networks that are preying on a vulnerable population in our state. Suppression operations, search warrants and daily police work have resulted in 126 distribution arrests and more than eight […]

To kick off Click it or Ticket enforcement, Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) troopers are encouraging Utahns to remind loved ones to buckle up. As part of this effort, troopers visited James E. Moss Elementary to share Alyson and Cortlen Simkin’s story, encouraging students to follow their example. When Alyson Simkins’ husband Michael wouldn’t buckle up, […]

Four spice overdoses have been reported in the Rio Grande district in a four-day period this month, which have emergency responders on alert. The overdoses were due to the use of spice, however, medical teams used Naloxone to save each patient. Naloxone typically only works when used on patients who have used an opioid. But, […]

The Department of Public Safety’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) agents served two search warrants this week at homes in Salt Lake City and West Valley City. As a result of the warrants, six foreign nationals were arrested. Five of the individuals are Honduran narcotic dealers. Agents found heroin and cocaine at both residences. The […]

Recently the Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Bureau of Forensic Science, commonly known as the State Crime Lab, and the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) worked together as one to better each bureaus investigative knowledge.  “A forensic scientist has a detailed perspective of a crime scene,” said Sgt. JT Jensen, an SBI agent. “We as […]

CLICK HERE TO APPLY If you’ve ever thought about becoming a state trooper, now is the time! A career with the Utah Highway Patrol is as diverse as it is rewarding. For more information on qualifications and the application process, visit highwaypatrol.utah.gov Video produced by Chris Averett.

The Driver License Division has began live chats with the public on their website.  The division takes an average of 1,300 calls daily. Now, the public has a new option of communicating with driver license representatives. Instead of calling into the call center, the public can now chat live with one of our agents. For […]

The Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting fire investigators in Northern Oregon. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) announced that its National Response Team (NRT) has joined the investigation into the Underwood Fruit and Warehouse Company Fire that occurred on October 18, 2017 at approximately 5:30 AM. The […]

In the premiere episode of CYBER24, Department of Public Safety’s Sgt. Jeff Plank discusses some of the top cyber security threats of 2017. To listen to the full podcast and subscribe to future CYBER24 podcasts, click here.

UPDATE: This version fixes a couple of errors in jurisdictions from the version that was emailed to the news media. Also, we have added Pleasant Grove, Layton and Uintah City as agencies that are deploying to California for a new total of 32 engines. Also, see the video of the group deploying below or here […]

Nominated by Commissioner Keith Squires, DPS’ State Bureau of Investigation’s Agent Crystal Wallis has truly gone above and beyond her call of duty. Agent Wallis has been assigned to work Operation Rio Grande. Recently Agent Wallis made a connection with a man who was in obvious need of professional mental health. She introduced herself and […]

The Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) honored more than 75 of its finest from all 11 divisions and bureaus, including members of the public and officers from across the state. Governor Gary Herbert joined DPS Commissioner Keith Squires in presenting local, state and community members who have made an impact on Utah and its residents in […]

In light of the recent mass shooting in Las Vegas, the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds everyone to be vigilant and report suspicious activity to your local law enforcement agency. “If you see something, say something.” Know the eight signs of terrorism: Surveillance: demonstrating an unusual interest in facilities to determine how well […]

As part of our ongoing commitment to public safety and the citizens of Utah, DPS partnered with the Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (CELL), Lt. Governor Spencer Cox, local law enforcement agencies and many others, to create a video and the Community Awareness Program (CAP) designed to educate citizens on how to properly recognize and report […]

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) held a meeting with members of the community at The Road Home shelter in Salt Lake City.  This meeting was the second of a series of meetings scheduled at The Road Home. The goal of each community gathering is to answer questions and discuss any concerns regarding Operation Rio […]

SALT LAKE CITY — Three State of Utah employees are headed to Florida to help with a human and animal services mission there in response to Hurricane Irma. They will be available to the media for an hour for one-on-one interviews to discuss what their mission and expertise and how they have prepared to deploy […]

In recognition of the important role that forensic science plays in the investigation of crimes throughout the nation, from exonerating the innocent to identifying the guilty,the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) would like to recognize the scientific and technical professionals that serve our communities in this vital role.  This week is nationally recognized 7 […]

The U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance understands that many states and communities need support in helping ensure information systems are designed to identify, prepare for, prevent and respond to cyber threats and incidents. Utah is a leader across the nation in building cyber resilience and the Police Executive Research Forum published an […]

Hurricane Harvey has caused devastation on the Gulf Coast in Texas. A disaster, by definition, is an event that overwhelms your resources. So Utah is helping First, see what you can do to help. Then, scroll down to see who from the Beehive State is helping in Texas and also to see how our own […]

Our Troopers are committed to making a positive impact in the community. They recently shared their first-hand experiences with Operation Rio Grande. Video produced by Chris Averett.

The Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) and Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) are urging drivers to drive off the freeway after minor fender benders. These types of crashes can cause major delays on the freeway and create safety issues. After a typical crash on a six-lane freeway where the involved vehicles pull onto the shoulder, traffic […]

Utah Department of Public Safety Commissioner, and Homeland Security Advisor Keith D. Squires, discusses the growing threat of cyber intrusion to public agencies. Commissioner Squires discusses what Utah is doing to develop what FBI Director James Comey calls “a national model for investigating cyber crime”.

On April 20, the Department of Public Safety’s Division of Emergency Management held their annual state-wide earthquake drill “The Great Utah ShakeOut”. This year’s event drew nearly one million participants and served as a great reminder of what to do in the event of an actual earthquake, and how you can prepare to recover during […]

Senator Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, senior member and former Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, toured the Utah Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) State Crime Lab along with Ed and Elizabeth Smart. “Utah is setting the standard that many other states should follow” when it comes to forensic science, said Hatch. DPS forensic scientists assist local, […]

The U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance understands that many states and communities need support in helping ensure information systems are designed to identify, prepare for, prevent and respond to cyber threats and incidents. Utah is a leader across the nation in building cyber resilience and the Police Executive Research Forum published an […]

On the morning of April 25, a UHP Trooper patrolling the area near the Utah/Arizona border stopped a vehicle heading northbound. A UHP K-9 was dispatched to the scene, where it indicated to the presence of narcotics. Further searching revealed two secret compartments containing 42 brick shaped packages, totaling 50 pounds. Field testing returned positive […]

Every year during the second week of April, the telecommunications personnel in the public safety community, are honored. It is a time to celebrate and thank those who dedicate their lives to serving the public. Whether it’s dispatching emergency response teams in critical moments or the crucial assistance they provide law enforcement and first responders, […]

During a search and rescue call for a missing kayaker, the Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) helicopter crew and a deputy from Garfield County came across a family of 4 who was stranded along the Escalante River. As the air crew searched the Escalante River for the missing kayaker, they noticed a group on the […]

At the Department of Public Safety, we are deeply committed to maximizing your investment in us. In 2013 Governor Gary Herbert challenged all state agencies to become more efficient; the target set was a 25% improvement. A persistent dedication to this goal over the last three years has helped us achieve a 41% improvement in […]

It’s a big weekend in Salt Lake City – St. Patrick’s Day and March Madness! St. Patrick’s Day brings many people to their favorite pub for a pint, while the NCAA tournament brings sports fans to their favorite bar to cheer on their alma mater or to Vivint Home Arena where first and second round […]

Drinking and driving is dangerous and deadly. And it’s 100% preventable. To help people understand the many negative consequences of drinking and driving, we created five new videos which we’ll be sharing and promoting on our social media channels. You can help us spread the word – share these videos with your family and friends […]

The Utah Council for Citizen Diplomacy leadership program recently hosted a meeting with the Department of Public Safety’s State Bureau of Investigation division, the FBI, and their international counterparts from Algeria, Mali, Palestine, Lebanon, Egypt and Jordan where ideas on how to promote community resilience related to terrorism were discussed.