The Salt Lake City Police Department's ongoing mission to build community ties entered a new chapter this football season, with officers on bikes venturing out into the East Central Neighborhood to educate revelers about noise control. Making their rounds last Thursday, August 29, these officers sought to gently remind folks of the delicate balance between celebration and disturbance.
It's a yearly trend: when college football season kicks off, the number of calls the SLCPD receives regarding oversized parties and their accompanying public order issues, to not mention loudly the noise complaints, illegal parking, and underaged drinking swells. "The Salt Lake City Police Department receives an influx of public order-related calls for service during football season," a representative from the department mentioned, as per SLCPD. Officers engaged the community between 400 - 600 South from 1000 East - 1300 East, addressing several gatherings before and after the city's noise ordinance kicks in at 10 p.m.
The responses from both party-goers and neighborhood residents were overwhelmingly positive. People appreciated the police's presence, finding the conversation and outreach respectful. SLCPD's efforts were not just pedal-powered, patrol cars also added to the visibility, cruising the streets with their red and blue lights on but not flashing. This combined approach resulted in no citations having to be issued during the outreach. Neighbors reportedly gave positive feedback, according to the SLCPD.
For a more personal look into the tact SLCPD took, the department has released body-worn camera footage from one of the night's interactions. Media can use this video with credit to the Salt Lake City Police Department, ensuring that viewer discretion is carefully maintained and privacy preserved. "The video is being released for a law enforcement purpose to highlight the professionalism of officers and to show the respect and cooperation they received from community members," as per SLCPD.
In the end, the bike squad connected with nearly 10 houses hosting active parties, emphasizing the importance of keeping the peace and adhering to city and state laws. The Salt Lake City Police Department reminds anyone planning to host a party that noise regulation is in effect between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. and services fees may be levied for repeated police responses to noise-related calls. SLCPD continues to encourage community members to use 9-1-1 for reporting emergencies, which include fights, people with weapons, and medical emergencies like drug overdose or alcohol poisoning.
