In a bid to address public safety concerns downtown, the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) recently wrapped up a two-day operation targeting criminal activities around the Main City Library, according to SLCPD. Illegal drug activity was a particular focus for the initiative which took place on January 22 and 23.
SLCPD partnered with the Utah Transit Authority Police Department (UTAPD) bringing nearly 70 officers to the scene also paired social workers with the police to bridge law enforcement with the provision of critical services to the community, in alignment with the City’s Public Safety Plan the operation yielded seven arrests, nine citations, and the seizure of methamphetamine and cash. "Holding people accountable for violating the law is our police department’s primary responsibility," said Police Chief Mike Brown, as obtained by SLCPD."But we must also balance our efforts to help ensure those in need are also connected with available resources and services."
The undertaking was not purely punitive, as efforts were also made to assist those affected by homelessness near the operation area. SLCPD social workers and representatives from the Odyssey House extended offers of housing assistance to which five individuals agreed, while three others accepted food and blankets.
This unique approach of law enforcement blended with social assistance included personnel from SLCPD's various divisions such as the Central Patrol Division Community Impact Division, Special Investigations Unit, the SLCPD’s Bike Squad, and the Office of the Chief with the assistance from Odyssey House being particularly noted, the department anticipates launching similar operations throughout Salt Lake City to combat high crime rates.
