Beyond the Badge: Recent Episodes
KSL Podcasts
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Featured officers come from state, county, and municipal law enforcement agencies and must be POST certified. Officers nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Lieutenant Governor and the ULCT.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer William Barnett of the Taylorsville police department. When responding to a call for help from a disabled man, Officer Barnett came up with a plan to help push him and his wheelchair past a construction site and out of the sun on a hot day. The man told Officer Barnett that he went way above what he needed to do, but Officer Barnett said he will just continue to do those kinds of kind acts.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Preston Casey of the Centerville Police Department. After responding to an accident involving an emotionally unstable veteran. Officer Casey offered his phone number and an open ear to this veteran. When the phone rang later that night, Officer Casey answered and talked to the veteran who had been considering suicide, but changed his mind after hearing Officer Casey's kind words.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Lieutenant Eric Stucki of the Utah State Parks department. While off duty attending his son's basketball game at East High School, Lieutenant Stucki was running a score clock when someone came in asking for medical assistance. He ran in and found a boy with only a slight pulse. When the AEd system wasn't accessible, he started chest compression and was able to call 911. The Boy has now made a full recovery.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Steve Olson of the Cottonwood Heights police department. When visiting a restaurant Officer Olson found out that a boy had his bike stolen while working one day. After the boy explained his dependence on the bike, officer Olson decided to track down the exact same bike, and purchased it for the boy out of his own money. The boy was extremely grateful.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Detective Scott Lloyd of the Taylorsville City Police Department. When a child was acting out, more than just a tantrum. As the boy was being held down Detective Lloyd deescalated the situation, preventing any harm to the people surrounding the officer, or himself. It lead to the child getting real help for the issues he has been struggling with while keeping the child's dignity and self respect.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Sergeant Randy Thomason of the South Ogden City Police department. When a man was heard yelling for help, Sergeant Thomason found a man who wasn't hurt but was very cold and stuck in his wheelchair. When Sergeant Thomason tried to call the care facility, they said they couldn't help. So he leaned on firefighters who were finally able to get the man unstuck and was able to get his trailer back to the care facility as well.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Park City Police Chief Wade Carpenter and Captain Phil Kirk and the rest of the Park City Police Department. When a woman ran out of gas, an officer stopped and helped her. Another similar situation happened when she had a flat tire. When the woman's husband and son had a head-on collision that killed her son, Captain Phil Kirk attended the funeral.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Lehi Police Lieutenant Kenny Rose. It's been 17 years since the death of fellow Officer Joseph Dan Adams was shot and killed in the line of duty. Lieutenant Rose took the phrase, 'never forgotten' so much to heart that he still regularly visits Officer Adams' family. It was Officer Adams' wife who wrote the nomination. Lieutenant Rose even helped build a park through an Eagle Scout project since Officer Adams was a scout leader.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Canine Officer Rino. When a suspect attempted to run over a couple of deputies, the suspect fled. Once the car was found empty, that's when Officer Josh McEwen, Rino's handler, announced there was a K9. When the suspect didn't respond, McEwen released Rino who successfully apprehended the suspect. This is the first K9 nomination for Beyond the Badge.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Jeff Dingman of South Ogden and his wife Corrections Deputy Bobby Bailey. While visiting Pearl Harbor on their honeymoon, they met a woman named Ruth who started to stumble and ended up collapsing. Officer Dingman and his wife helped to save the life of this woman by administering CPR till medical help could arrive. Weeks later Officer Dingman spoke to Ruth on the phone after her return home to Chicago and after recovering.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Deputy Justin Mortensen of Utah County. When a manhunt for a violent fugitive ended up in a car chase at 70 miles per hour while blasting through, school zones and intersections with people in crosswalks, Officer Mortensen knew it had to end. The deputy decided to crash his car into the fugitive with his car. Officer Mortensen actually broke bones.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Sioape Lautaha from the Cottonwood Heights Police Department. When an elderly woman flagged down Officer Lautaha after a snow plow had left a large pile of snow in the way, Officer Lautaha responded by grabbing a shovel and helping her to clear the pile of snow. He says that most times people think of the police as just people with badges who enforce laws and arrest people. While that's part of it, the helping aspect sometimes gets overlooked.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Cody Painter, Grantsville police department. When a call came down that a man that was unresponsive, him and fellow officers were able to resuscitate him enough so he could go to the hospital. Officer Painter had an inkling that he needed to follow up with this family and when he did, he found that he had served in the same 101st Airborne which is the same that Officer Cody served in. When the passed away he even attended the funeral.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Resource Officer at Granite Park Jr High Chad Leetham. Granite Park Jr High has a huge population of refugee students. About 600 kids with about 62 countries and 41 different languages. They run a food pantry and help the refugee students who may not be able to get food. So the pantry donates food to these students during the weekends. Officer Leetham working two jobs still finds time to help all these kids.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Detective Damian Openshaw of the Cache County Sheriff's Department. When he met some kids before Christmas, he found out they weren't going to have a proper Christmas. When he approached his wife about it, they decided to leave some presents for them. Detective likes to be able to help those in need especially around the holiday season
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Sgt. Aaron Thompson of the Washington County Sherriff. On Christmas Day, a boy fell through ice into water. So Sgt. Thompson went in after him to try and find him. Despite hypothermia setting in, Sgt. Thompson continued to try to find the boy several more times. Against all odds, Sgt. Thompson found the boy floating under the ice and recovered him. He made a complete recovery.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Mike Keisel of the West Jordan Police Department. Officer Keisel grew up skateboarding, and approached some kids when they were skateboarding. He offered up a skateboard deck to them. One of his first experiences with law enforcement was similar when he was younger as a skateboarder, and it stuck with him through the years, so he thought he'd offer a kind gesture to show that not all cops look at skateboarders as bad.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Kevin Salmon and Officer Joey Incardine of the Cottonwood Heights Police Department. An elderly female had overstayed her welcome in a Denny's after about 12-13 hours trying to keep warm. When the officers arrived they didn't feel good about sending her out into the 19 degree weather, so they booked her 2 nights at a local hotel with their own money to let her clean herself up. The two officers say it's just their job to be helpful like this.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Trooper Cam Fawson of the Utah Highway Patrol. When he decided to buy an electric guitar and an amp Trooper Fawson never thought he would be giving it up after only a year. Trooper Fawson decided to give it away to a Facebook follower, a high school student who they ended up punking and giving her both the guitar and amp in person.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Brian Crosby of the Lehi Police Department. When a young boy left a bike at school, he returned to find his bike completely vandalized and unrideable. When Officer Crosby reviewed the footage he found the vandals threw the bike up against the wall. Officer Crosby and the rest of the police department all chipped in and bought the boy a new bike, helmet, and other accessories to replace the bike that was destroyed.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor State Trooper Charity Thomas of the Utah Highway Patrol. When being called out on a hit and run incident, Officer Thomas was informed by the woman who was hit that there was an impression of a license plate number on the car after it was hit. She found the vehicle, the owner and the friend who was driving the car. With warrants out for his arrest and a suspended license, and was able to put him in jail.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Shay Ballard of the Sandy City Police Department. When a special needs student was precariously balanced in a beam 10-15 feet above the ground. Officer Ballard was able to jump up on the beam and was able to run and grab him. As a school resource officer, Officer Ballard feels like he is in the ideal job for him.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Mark Sempsrott of the North Ogden Police Department. When a young boy reported a bike stolen, Officer Sempsrott felt a deep connection. When he was a child he had a bike stolen, and it was really his first experience with law enforcement. While the police were unable to recover the stolen bike, Officer Sempsrott bought the boy a brand new one. The boy was speechless but incredibly excited.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Chief Tracy Wyant of the Taylorsville Police Department. When an armed bank robbery happened, they fled at a high rate of speed and smashed into a car. The driver was unable to care for her dog that was in the care at the time of the accident, so Chief Wyant cared for the dog until the driver had recovered. He not only helped a woman escape her car after a terrible car accident, but returned for her dog and helped nurse him back to health.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Sergeant Aaron Johnson of the Utah Department of Corrections at the Utah State Prison. Sergeant Johnson wants to make sure the 98% of the inmates returning to society are the best class of citizen that they can be. Sergeant Johnson also takes his duty beyond the State Prison by helping under privledged kids learn to play football. A father of 5 himself, he's taking on a lot in the community.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Nate Rackham of the Brigham City Police Department. Officer Rackham was helping a sergeant with a traffic stop where someone was arrested on a warrant. In the car was a mother and three kids in the car. He got the permission to get them a hotel room and paid for it with his own money. He didn't feel good about leaving them out in the cold without anywhere to go.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Kristian Johnson of the Logan Police Department. A former Lawyer turned police officer, Officer Johnson was on a call helping a woman who was legally blind. When he had finished his work, he asked the woman if there was anything else he could do for her. When she requested that he sing a song she liked, he didn't back down. And it was all captured on his vest camera. Officer Johnson just loves what he does.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Sergeant Shane Nebeker of the Utah Highway Patrol. Sergeant Nebeker was dispatched to a local elderly woman who had run out of gas on the freeway. The woman was on oxygen and was almost still in traffic on the side of the road. Sergeant Nebeker helped push her into the port of entry and bought her five gallons of gasoline to help the woman get back on the road to get to where she needed to be.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Vernon Herrst of the Central Utah Correctional Facility in Gunnison. Officer Herrst found that many of the inmates were stagnant with their education. When asked, many said they were on the waiting list to take classes. Officer Herrst decided to take it upon himself to have the inmates start teaching each other, and it's had a great affect on the inmates.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Thomas Talbert of the Moab City Police & Deputy Austin Brewer of the Grand County Sheriff's Department. Both officers were called to a restaurant where a man had discharged a firearm outside. When the man ran inside to the restaurant with a couple hundred people, the officers took precautionary measures to get the gun away from the man, while also keeping the people in the restaurant safe. No one was injured in this terrifying experience.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Tyler Tracy of the Salt Lake Police Department. When Officer Tracy found himself in an active shooter situation with a suicidal man, he knew that he had to get people evacuated from the surrounding areas. In one case he acted as a human shield to escort a woman to safety, with only his bulletproof vest as protection. Officer Tracy he acted, and did what he knew was right to protect.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Adrian Montelongo of the South Jordan Police Department who, while working his beat one day, decided to pull people over. Instead of giving them a ticket though, the shocked citizens found out that he was handing out coupons for a frozen treat so they could enjoy the day a little more. Officer Montelongo says that it's something as simple as interacting with people, or giving out a coupon for a frozen treat that can help the community.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Officer Tim Prince of the South Jordan Police Department. After a woman's mother died, she discovered that her mother's rings had been stolen. When she contacted the South Jordan Police Department, Officer Tim Prince was able to track down the pawn shop that had sold one of the rings and actually had one in the shop. The other was recovered from who it had been sold to. All of the woman's mother's rings were recovered thanks to Officer Prince.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Corporal Jason Ruch of the Saratoga Springs Police Department. After a nasty traffic accident, Corporal Ruch wanted the young daughter involved in the accident to feel a little better. He brought her a toy, of which he had several in his car, which the daughter would later re-name to Ruch to commemorate how nice he had been to her that night. Corporal Ruch sees what he did as just another way he can help to give back to the community.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Sergeant Nick Napierski. When a man blew a tire on his trailer while driving on Highway 6, Sergeant Napierski didn't think twice about helping the man in need to get him back on the road. Sergeant Napierski says that "it may be our hundreth crash we've seen this week.... literally 50 years from now these people remember, and they remember the officer that was there". A simple everyday gesture, that could leave a lasting impact on the person he's helped.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Agent Crystal Wallace of the Department of Public Safety's: Project Rio Grande. She noticed a homeless man who continued to get dirtier and dirtier over time. When she approached him, she initially thought he had drugs in his system, but in fact, he had some mental illness. At one point she brought him to the hospital to get him the medications he needed, and he became normal, talkative, and friendly.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of beyond the badge, we honor Sergeant Justin Gordon of the Utah County Sheriff's Office found himself in an undesirable situation when he was called to a domestic violence situation inside a vehicle coming down the canyon. When he found a young child helpless, Sergeant Gordon helped by feeding the child when they were in need.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this episode of KSL's beyond the badge, we honor Sergeant Kevin Norris who was waiting for court. While waiting, an active and wild child was there with her dad. When the dad had to go in, and the child was not allowed to follow, Sergeant Norris took the child for a walk and a drink, and they watched videos until she fell asleep. The moment was captured in a video that went viral.
KSL's Beyond the Badge recognizes the good work that Utah's public safety officers do every day to make each of our lives better. Listen to Utah's Morning News every weekday as Amanda Dickson highlights the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep us safe.
Officers are nominated by their respective police chiefs, sheriffs and supervisors, and the general public. Those featured are selected by a committee composed of representatives from KSL, the Department of Public Safety and Utah Local Governments Trust. KSL has also partnered with the Utah Lieutenant Governor to help execute the program.
Beyond the badge is sponsored by the Utah Local Government's Trust. Protecting those who protect you. Providing specialized insurance products and services protecting more than 540 local governments. Be safe, and come home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Officer Chad Hayman was patrolling Main Street in Tremonton, Utah, at 2am.
He saw a man with a rifle looking into Western Billiards. Earlier that evening, this man had been in a dispute with some of the people there.
Officer Hayman confronted the armed man, who then fled. Hayman pursued and was able to arrest him safely.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Deputy Kyle Adams of the Sanpete Sheriff's Department went to a welfare check of a man at a family cabin. Unable to contact the man, Deputy Adams decided to stay and search the mountain.
The man was hurt and had been alone and exposed for three nights. When Deputy Adams found him, he was barely clinging to life.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lt Perry has had an amazing career and is also a State Representative. He has distinguished himself countless times with the compassion he brings to the role of a police officer and state trooper. These include going far and beyond in taking care of the needs of crash victims, local efforts in his community, and the ownership he take in looking out for two of the surviving spouses of fallen troopers, who both worked under his command.
Lt Perry has taken families with children into his home to give them a safe a warm place to stay following a tragedy they had been involved in. Lt / Representative Perry also worked for years to pass a primary seatbelt law, because he knew it would save lives.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cottonwood Heights was terrorized by a robber who hit 5 businesses in a two week period. The suspect produced a firearm in each of the robberies and became bolder after each successful attempt.
Sergeant Dan Morzelewski (then Detective) used every resource available to identify the suspect but was unsuccessful in in apprehending this person of interest. Morzelewski talked to countless witnesses and combed through several suspects spending nights and weekends watching businesses.
On 5/27/17 while off duty at the Dan’s supermarket Dan recognized who he believed to be the suspect and coordinated efforts to apprehend him. Zane James was charged in 3rd District court with all 5 robberies.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Officer Kevin Salmon responded to a call of a theft of a bicycle on Town Circle. Someone had cut the lock to a shed and stole a girls bicycle.
The victim, a 12 year old girl who had immigrated here with her family from Russia had won the bike at her school by winning a reading contest. In its place, the thief had left a bucket of human feces.
Obviously both the girl and her mother were devastated. On his own volition, Officer Salmon went to Target and purchased the girl a replacement bike with his own money. When he brought it back to the girls house, she was beyond words. The family was so grateful.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Orem Police Lieutenant Craig Martinez put himself in the hot seat to teach families an important lesson about the dangers of children playing or being left in cars in hot weather.
He live streamed his experience sitting in his patrol car in full sun. The interior temperature went up to 127 degrees. His heart rate increased by 47 beats per minute (even though he never moved), and and his core temperature went up three degrees.
It was a startling demonstration of how quickly things can get very dangerous for unattended children in hot cars.
Parents sometimes forget small children in the car. Have something in your car to remind you to check for kids.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The following letter was written by Heather Walker, a citizen of Davis County:
"I encountered a hero today. Sheriff Todd Richardson of Davis County came to Lily and my rescue today. Heading southbound on I-15 approaching Farmington my back left tire went flat. Fortunately, I could feel a pull and heard it and was able to pull over, but we were stuck on the left side of the road with minimal space between us and the other cars going 75+ past us. I called road side assistance and my husband and then just sat there frozen in the car with my 9-year old who we were trying to get her to her dance competition in Magna. I really was terrified to get out and just kept an eye in my rear view mirror keeping tabs on approaching cars that they weren't drifting over.
Maternal instincts set in to keep Lily safe. Major relief came when I saw an unmarked police car heading the other way, mind you, pull into the emergency turn around and back up to our car. He was the most compassionate person and a true hero at that moment. Not even on duty, with his daughter in the car, he came to our rescue. We worked trying to get the spare tire from under the car (which is a whole story itself) and then proceeded to change it all himself. Thank you to that amazing man and I pray that many, many blessings come your way! Words from my Lily: thank you for stopping and helping us. I'm grateful for that."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Wednesday, March 8th, AP&P Agent Marc Miller went above and beyond in attempting to help one of his probationer. Marc had received a call from the family of one of his probationers, Bobby Orris. Bobby's family was concerned for his welfare as they had not heard from him for a few days. Agent Miller, along with Agent Seth Peterson spent considerable time driving around Ogden attempting to locate Bobby. Eventually, they went back to the Bobby’s reported address. When Agent Miller and Peterson arrived they received no response at the front or back door of the home and could smell a strong odor of natural gas near the door. As they were returning to their car to call for assistance, the house suddenly exploded sending the roof into the air and back down in the location they had been standing just a few minutes prior. The home immediately erupted into flames. Agent Miller kicked in the front door and entered the home in an attempt to rescue anyone inside. Agent Miller was eventually forced to back out of the home as the smoke was too thick and flames too high to remain. Within seconds of his retreat, a neighbor pointed to a person inside the home by a second floor window. Agent Miller recognized his probationer, Bobby Orris and began yelling for him to crawl out of the window Eventually, Bobby came out, onto the roof, and slid down to Marc, Seth and the firefighters below. Marc showed great bravery, professionalism, and compassion during this incident.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The following nomination comes from Jean North, a citizen of Heber City:
Detective Tammy Thacker has devoted her career to helping make her community a safe, exceptional place for the children of our community to grow up in. She is the strongest advocate for the children in the Heber Valley. When Detective Thacker is involved with Children in the community they find a friend in her. She goes above and beyond what is required of her. The children respect and look up to her and are willing to work hand in hand to help better their situation. When she sees a need she is usually the first one to act upon it. An example is a family living in devastating circumstances and in need of help for Christmas. Officer Thacker shared their plea with others in the community and through many long hours and hard work was able to make their home a safe home and more comfortable to live in. She purchased a Christmas tree and gifts from her own pocket so the children in the family would have a Christmas. Her comment when she finished, "What a heartfelt gift I have received this Christmas."
Detective Thacker is a wife, mother, homemaker and a great friend to all who has the privilege of knowing her. She loves to can fruits and vegetables she grows in her own garden. Her yard is filled with beautiful flowers and herbs as she enjoys working in her yard and garden. She has many talents that she shares often with everyone. She loves to go four wheeling, camping and cooking dutch oven dinners. She is such a vital asset to our community and we are grateful to have her and work alongside her in our community. She truly makes a difference.
Detective Thacker works with the School Counselors in expressing her concerns and building up students who need that little extra push. Detective Thacker started Shop with a Cop in the Heber Valley. It is a wonderful program and is going strong to this day. Detective Thacker felt a need to have a stronger bond between the children and officers in the valley. She instigated an event called Kid's Academy. It was a free event offered to any child between the ages of 10-14. Kids learned what it is like to be a police officer, use radio, traffic stops, shooting sim guns, finger printing, and evidence gathering, physical fitness and more. Lunch was provided and those who attended went away with a new found alliance with the Police Department. Many of her co-workers helped make this event successful. It went over so well that she is planning on for this year also. Detective Thacker is involved in The Latino's In Action program helping promote and building stronger relationship's for these students to improve throughout the Heber Valley.
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A woman was traveling through Green River in Emery County when she found herself in a difficult position. Her husband was a US Marine killed in action and she was all alone. She had travelled for a job opportunity that didn't pan out and thankfully it was Deputy Kay Jensen who found her.
When the woman explained she had no food or money, Deputy Jensen opened his wallet and gave the woman all the cash he had. He didn't even hesitate.
The woman began to cry stating she couldn’t take the money; Deputy Jensen put the money in the backpack the woman was carrying and told her to get something to eat and to think of only good things.
Deputy Jensen then arranged for her to get to an airport so she could return to her family.
This story was relayed to the Emery County Sheriff by a citizen witness. Had that witness stayed quiet, we would never have known this story because Deputy Jensen didn't tell anyone what he'd done. He's a humble man who serves the people of Emery County.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Officer Jeremy Barnes was on vacation in Montana with his wife when they witnessed a robbery at a pharmacy.
She alerted him to the robbery, asking if he had his gun. He didn't, but went in anyway.
He interrupted an armed robbery and retreated when a gun was pointed at him. He retreated and hid and as the gunman attempted to leave, Officer Barnes ambushed him. The gun went off during the struggle, but Jeremy was able to seize it and hold the robber at gunpoint until police arrived.
Officer Barnes is a veteran of the Draper City Police Department and currently works teaching other officers at the Utah Department of Public Safety.
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In February of 2017, Officer Ottesen responded to a local clinic for a welfare check. The clinic reported that a 19 year old female had wandered into the clinic and was hanging out in the lobby. She was not properly dressed for the cold weather and had nowhere to go.
When Officer Ottesen arrived he learned the woman was homeless, and had some developmental disabilities. She had been living with her mother but they were kicked out of their apartment and her mother was now in a nursing home.
The woman could not stay with her mother at the nursing home and family that she had in the area would not take her in. Officer Ottesen called local resources to see if he could find her a place to stay but had no success.
The temperatures were low and instead of leaving her on her own to roam from place to place looking for shelter, Officer Otteson paid for a two night stay at a local hotel with his own money. He also provided her with phone numbers to resources that could possibly assist her.
Officer Ottesen went above and beyond in assisting this young lady and this is typical of the good work he does on a daily basis.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Officer Rulon Green at Draper Park Middle School is known for his fantastic sense of humor and his carefree, calm attitude with the students. The students know he is someone they can trust and someone who is always willing to give them a friendly smile in the hallway.
He will often get on the speaker system during lunch, sharing jokes with the middle school students. Officer Green also has a pet pot belly pig. He sometimes brings the pig to school which is definitely an entertaining moment for the students.
Officer Green is a positive role model for students throughout Draper. Besides his service at Draper Park Middle School, Detective Green serves the Draper Community through DARE classes at all elementary schools in Draper (public, charter, private), and as head of Draper City Peer Court.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This past year, Garland Utah saw some very serious flooding. During that critical time, Officer Peter Gilchrist of the Garland Police Department was an example of what it means to serve as well as protect.
Officer Gilchrist and the other officers had put in long hours with road closures and helping the community while on the clock. Even with little sleep, Officer Gilchrist also was volunteering on his day off and was seen on the sandbagging lines in plain clothes to help out his neighbors in their hours of need.
Officer Gilchrist has also been spotted tutoring kids at the local elementary school to help them improve their reading skills.
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Officer Patterson uses his experience as a hunter and his influence as a Utah Conservation Officer to lift the spirits of those who have struggled with physical or emotional difficulties in their lives. In the past he has lifted the spirits of physically challenged individuals by helping them enjoy the outdoors and hunting.
This year Gabe focused his attention on the son of a fallen Officer. Officer Doug Barney was killed in the line of duty on January 17, 2016. Officer Barney left behind his family including his son Jack.
After hearing Jack was interested in hunting, Officer Patterson made arrangements with his contacts at the Johnson Mountain Cooperative Wildlife Management Unit (CWMU) who then graciously donated a bull elk tag for Jack. Gabe also reached out to the Mule Deer Foundation who donated a rifle to Jack.
Officer Patterson also followed through and helped with Jack’s hunt to make sure he took his elk.
Officer Gabe Patterson’s relationship with the hunting public and sportsmen’s groups is an asset to the Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) and the citizens of Utah. He has worked to cultivate these relationships so that he can provide amazing hunting and life changing experiences for those in need.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Deputy Zach Minor works with high risk individuals on Intensive Supervision Probation (ISP). Deputy Minor was nominated to Beyond The Badge by a man who is under Deputy Minor's supervision.
Here is a portion of that nomination letter:
"Zach has worked with me along with other high risk clients in the ISP program since it started sometime last year. I have been on ISP (Intensive Supervision Probation) for over a year now, and am at the very end as I am graduating in a month or so.
Zach has gone VERY far beyond what is asked of him to make sure that I was a success and he does this with all of his clients. We have overcome things together that I never thought possible.
When I met Zach, I was very lost in life and constantly in new trouble, in and out of jail. I had a SERIOUS heroin habit among other issues. Because of Zach, I am now over a year clean, and have changed my behaviors around, I now hold a good job, go to treatment only a few hours a week and my son has a father. Zach has gone so far beyond what he needed to do, and invested so much extra time into me, I could never repay him.
He also went beyond the norm by far because he didn't treat me like a drug addict, or a criminal. He treated me like an equal, and after spending time together we developed a friendship, he truly cares about me and what happens to me, and I know he wants me to make it just as much as I want to make it. When times were hard, and there were very hard times, he helped me find motivation to get up and keep pushing.
When I needed someone to lean on, he was always there and still is to this day. He will take a phone call no matter what day or time, to be there for me. He has helped me through the biggest challenge in my life, and never once given up on me, even if I sometimes gave up on myself."
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Ranger Jeff Arbon is a Utah State Park Ranger for the Utah Division of Parks and Recreation.
In July 2016 in the heat of the summer Jeff was finishing a shift and heard on the dispatch radio of a distressed mountain biker on the Poison Spider Mesa trail. There was a call for a helicopter rescue but dispatch needed on the ground verification by either SAR personnel or law enforcement.
Jeff knows the terrain very well so he returned to work, loaded his motorcycle and headed to the trail head. Jeff found the distressed mountain biker about 6 to 7 miles into the backcountry in the late stages of heat stroke. Jeff confirmed with dispatch the need for a helicopter rescue and as a trained First Responder Jeff doused the biker with water and monitored him closely.
With the helicopter in sight the mountain biker stopped breathing and lost a pulse. Jeff immediately began performing CPR and was quickly helped by the medical personnel from the helicopter crew. After about 20 minutes of performing ALS on the distressed mountain biker he regained a pulse and began breathing on his own.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When Officer Steve Linton became a School Resource Officer (SRO), he made it his job to get to know students, not just by name, but also by what they do, what their interests are, who they hang around with, and what issues they might have.
As Officer Linton became more and more knowledgeable of the students, he recognized an opportunity. He approached the leadership of Desert Hills High School with the idea of teaching an Introduction to Law Enforcement class.
Students who have taken it have loved working with Officer Linton and getting to know a totally different side of what a police office does.
At Desert Hills High School, Officer Linton also mentors at risk students. He keeps in close contact with them, helping them navigate school, and advocating for them. He has been influential in helping a lot of students graduate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Officer Justin Stanford is the Kaysville Police Departments DARE Officer and has been teaching the DARE program since the beginning of the 2016‐ 2017 school year.
During the short time Officer Stanford has been teaching DARE, he has done an outstanding job connecting and bonding with the students. Officer Stanford feels it is very important support students. He takes time to interact with the children by attending various school functions, such as school plays, fun runs, and other school events. Officer Stanford has taken time off duty to attend sporting events and other events that his DARE students are involved in to show his support. By attending these activities Officer Stanford shows the students that he really cares about each of them. Officer Stanford recently travelled to Italy with his church youth group. While there, Officer Stanford along with others, learned an Italian dance while interacting with the people of Italy. Officer Stanford has taken the time to teach the dance to the students that he teaches. The students love the time they are able to spend with Officer Stanford learning various dances.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Officer Matt Schuman has been a police officer in St. George, Utah, for ten years.
He is currently assigned to Dixie Middle School, where his quick intervention saved a student's life.
The student arrived at the front office to call her parents. She wasn't feeling well. Officer Schuman caught the student as she collapsed, went into a seizure, and stopped breathing.
Matt was able to revive her using CPR. Within moments, the student went into cardiac arrest. He continued CPR until medics arrived to Life Flight the student to a hospital in Las Vegas.
That same day, Officer Schuman was returning home from the school when he heard a dispatch call about an infant choking. Despite being on his way home, Matt diverted to the call and saved the child's life.
Twice in one day. What a phenomenal man and a real credit to the St. George Police Department and community.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Even as boy, Dusty Butler wanted to be a police officer. Now he's a twenty year veteran in Emery County and is in charge of the Emery County Jail.
For him, police work is service. In the jail, he's around troubled people all the time, but he's in a position to help them. It's rewarding to watch people leave jail and start a new life in a better direction.
The jail is not the only place Butler is able to change lives and help people get a new start.
One day, Sergeant Butler came across a man living out of his car. Using social media, Butler was able to secure a trailer and furnishings for the homeless man. He was able to mobilize the community to solve a problem that many others would have ignored.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Detective Javier Chavez is a 12 year veteran of Salt Lake County and works in the Midvale Precinct of Unified Police department. At UPD, Detective Chavez has taken on a challenging assignment, The Road Home Shelter in Midvale.
Detective Chavez has worked hard to build relationships with the shelter, shelter residents, and local businesses and residents.
These relationships have helped Detective Chavez in his police work as he has been able to solve numerous crimes in the shelter and surrounding area.
Chavez focuses a lot on helping people have positive experiences with the police. He tries to be very helpful in teaching people about the law and police work. He has even assisted Road Home residents resolve warrants and other matters so they can get a fresh start.
The NAACP recently honored Detective Chavez with an award for his great work
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Deputy Cody Ingle was recruited to Davis County from the Denver area, and Davis County Sheriff Todd Richardson called him a "gem find". He also serves in the county as a paramedic.
Deputy Ingle was dispatched to help a mother who's baby was unexpectedly born in the bathtub at 26 weeks- very premature.
The baby fit in the palm of the deputy's hand and was having trouble breathing. The baby was gasping for air and Deputy Ingle made the decision to intubate the child and use chest compression to aid the heart beat. Deputy Cody Ingle saved that child's life.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Officer Trevor Swenson responded to a suspicious person report at a Clearfield, Utah convenience store.
When Swenson arrived, he discovered a man searching for food in a dumpster.
A compassionate officer, Swenson bought the man some pizza, chips, and a hot drink.
He sets a great example of service to the community of Clearfield and compassion for neighbors of every background.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Before becoming an Iron County Sheriff's Deputy, Devin Lauritzen was a well known and accomplished paramedic. Sheriff Mark Gower says this gives him a lot of confidence in his deputy. Often deputies have to deal with medical challenges until paramedics can get on the scene. Deputy Lauritzen is able to do a lot of good in those first few minutes responding to medical emergencies.
Deputy Lauritzen's abilities really make a difference in Iron County, a large rural county where deputies are usually on the scene well before medical personnel. Sheriff Gower also says that the paramedics often look to Deputy Lauritzen for instruction as he is usually the highest ranking medical professional on the scene.
On his days off, Deputy Lauritzen also works for Life Flight.
Deputy Devin Lauritzen is also a member of the S.W.A.T, Search and Rescue, and Ropes Rescue teams.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Detective Mike Bleak is a 20 year veteran of the Cedar City Police Department. He is known in his department as a tireless and determined investigator whos work has delivered convictions in a wide array of cases including homicide, child sex abuse, and drug overdose deaths. He also serves as a Deputy Medical Examiner for the State of Utah and is a peer- support officer, giving physical and mental support and counsel.
Detective Bleak took a leadership role in the community when he saw the growth of the potentially deady "choking game". This game is played by youths and has taken lives across the country. He became an expert on the subject and how to fight it. His expertise has been sought across the country and as far away as Paris, France where he traveled to teach all he knows about preventing such reckless behavior among kids. Thanks to the detective's work, Iron County School District now has new and effective policies to address the dangerous game.
Detecive Bleak is the co- creator of the Cedar City Police Department E.A.S.Y. (Eliminate Alcohol Sales To Youth) program. Established over 15 years ago, the program works with alcohol retailers to keep the product out of the hands of underage youth.
In 2006, Detecive Bleak's E.A.S.Y. program was adopted by the State Of Utah.
Detective Bleak co- founded Leaders For Life, which helps youth build leadership skills, positively influence their peers, and make good and healthy choices.
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Officer Krebs grew up in Mapleton and now serves his community as a full time police officer. Officer Krebs is passionate about his work, but communicates with people in a calm and compassionate manner. There is no doubt in my mind that he truly cares about the people that he serves.
Officer Krebs comes to work with a smile on his face every day. He is pleasant to be around and always looks for the good in a situation. Officer Krebs does not complain, but rather looks for ways for he and his department to improve every day.
Recently Mapleton experienced an increase in theft and drug violations. Officer Krebs jumped in and began investigating all avenues to curb the activity. Without being asked he went through drug house garbage cans in hopes of gathering evidence for a search warrant. He conducted surveillance on numerous homes where drug activity was taking place and made legal stops of vehicles leaving in hopes of stopping the activity. Officer Krebs is passionate about keeping the public safe from impaired drivers. He is our department leader in DUI and drug related arrests.
Officer Krebs is a family first type of officer. He and his wife have three little children together. Officer Krebs and his wife are passionate outdoor people who will hike to extreme places that many of us would not consider.
Officer Krebs is the type of officer that I'm prod to have represent the City of Mapleton. He understands the importance of his role in serving our citizenry. No call is too minor for him to show compassion to.
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Jerry Silva started working for the South Salt Lake Police Department in 1997. He grew up in this area and wanted to
help his community. He's the reason why our Police Athletic League is now a national model.
The South Salt Lake PAL was started by Officer Robbin Wilkins in 1998. Jerry participated with PAL very early on, but PAL took a hiatus between 2002 - 2006 due to lack of support from the city administration. During that time, Jerry continued to engage with the kids in the community whenever possible, to keep the notion of PAL floating.
In 2006, PAL officially started up again because of Jerry's passion. Then in 2010, the PAL Pete Suazo Boxing Program began with the opening of the Central Park Community Center. The center has had high profile guests including Evander Holyfield and tournaments featuring youth fighters from all over the west. Jerry Silva is the real deal!
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On 9-22-16 a tornado touched down in Washington Terrace, Utah. Deputy Nelson was not on duty this day but heard about the tornado and decided that he would go help. As Deputy Nelson was driving to the area hardest hit be the tornado another call came in from dispatch. A 7 year old child had been riding is bike and was struck by a car. Deputy Nelson immediately responded to help the boy. The injuries to the child were minor but unfortunately the bike was totally destroy and the 7 year old was devastated. Without any prompting Deputy Nelson bought the boy a new bike and helmet using his own money. Deputy Nelson than delivered the bike the to boy at school. When he delivered the bike Deputy Nelson also presented a bike safety presentation to the second graders at Roosevelt Elementary School.
Deputy Nelson went above and beyond in his handling of not only the accident but they care and concern he should this boy.
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Lt. Craig Martinez is one of the department's administrative lieutenants who also acts as Public Information Officer and handles all of the department social media. Craig has become somewhat of a sensation with his social media posts and activities. Currently, over 24,000 people follow the page. Many of those people live in Utah County, but he also has gained followers from all over the world.
Craig is constantly looking for innovative ways to use social media as well. His 'Tattle Tale Tuesday' posts feature surveillance photos of crimes. Due to his jovial and entertaining nature, followers wait for his posts. About 80% of the time, the suspects are identified by followers, sometimes within minutes of being posted.
Craig has also conducted other activities on social media such as an Easter egg hunt via snapchat where tons of kids became involved in trying to find hidden eggs around the city with their parents. Last summer he came up with the idea to host weekly Kids Camps at the police department for kids in order to keep them busy and out of trouble. The Camps were a great success and parents and kids are already looking forward to next year.
Last Halloween, Craig organized a Trunk-or-Treat event at the Orem Police Department. Along with his on-line advertising, the event was overwhelmingly attended by thousands of people. This year, he is currently organizing another Trunk or Treat at a larger venue and he has already been asked by several surrounding agencies if they can be involved.
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This officer has reached out to community partners in hopes of finding a partner to help serve a much needed special underserved population in our communities. That is helping with the Alzhiemer's, Dementia and some mentally handicapped community members during individual crisis situations. Project Lifesaver is the name of the national program that has made the hardware to locate and return wondering or lost members of the above mentioned groups of our community. In these special needs groups, time is critical in finding and relocating these individuals with their loved ones.
Officer Radley began meeting with these three groups and realized very soon that we have a fairly large number of individuals in our communities. He developed a partnership with IHC and were able to receive a large donation that will not only benefit our city, but our entire county. We were given enough money to purchase equipment and bands for each jurisdiction in our county. We will now be able to serve this part of our community in a way that gives great confidence and piece of mind to the family members of the individuals in our community that suffer from these medical conditions.
We were presented with the funds last week in a city council meeting and are in the process of rolling this out to enhance the service to our communities throughout Washington County. We are very excited with this opportunity to grow the partnerships with our community members.
Please feel free to contact me for further information.
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Sergeant Josh Whatcott has been a police officer for over 16 years. He currently works as a patrol sergeant.
He was recently recognized for his part in lifesaving CPR on a retired California police officer along the Jordan River Parkway. Josh spent a lot of time with the retired officer and his family in the days after the event including attending to their needs and visiting them in the hospital.
Sergeant Whatcott was also recognized recently by a young lady and her family who he helped when they found a family member deceased. Josh took the time to counsel with them during their grieving period. KSL ran a story on that occasion due to a fallen officer memorial display the young lady made to thank Sergeant Whatcott and Officer Iversen.
Sergeant Whatcott took his shift and delivered gifts and stuffed animals to children at Riverton Hospital Children's ICU unit last Christmas Eve.
In the past, Sergeant Whatcott has taken the time to have lunch with elementary school children in our community.
Sergeant Whatcott is a firm believer in community policing. He supports the concept of engaging the community in efforts to reduce crime by working together. He also understands the guardian role the police officer plays in the community and has gone above and beyond in serving the community of South Jordan. I am proud of Josh’s efforts and happy to nominate him for recognition in the “making life better beyond the badge” program.
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Officer Jeremy Brown is an exceptional person and a dedicated officer who makes a profound difference in our community. Officer Brown is currently serving as a D.A.R.E officer to four elementary schools and the resource officer for Centerville Junior High. He works under the direction of the Detective Division, as such has been trained for crime scene investigation and he assists with cases as he is available.
Jeremy has also been given many additional assignments due to his wide range of talent and abilities. Because of his computer knowledge he has been tapped to assist with I.T. issues. He is the liaison between the Police Department and the July 4th Celebration Committee, as such he planned for all police resource deployments during the last two years. Jeremy has also taken on many different odd jobs like keeping up on our facebook page posts, gathering traffic related data, placement of the RADAR trailer around the city and other duties. I constantly hear praise from members of the public and from my own staff regarding Jeremy and his work.
Officer Brown is exceptional at observing how things are being done and coming up with better ways to do it. For example when he took on the RADAR trailer assignment he created it's own email address and then placed a message on the trailer advising the community how to request it. In Jeremy's office he maintains a list of all the tasks he has to complete with the time requested for completion and current status. I have heard from people that Jeremy always treats them good, makes sure that he follows up with them as needed, and has a great sense of humor. Jeremy has taken his assignment with the schools very seriously and I have been completely amazed at his work product. For example, during each school year at each of the many classes he teaches at the four elementary schools he puts together many activities and takes pictures of the kids. He then takes these pictures and puts together a very entertaining and wonderful presentation for each class which he gives at the D.A.R.E. graduation. I have sat in on his lessons and notice how the kids love him and observed how amazing he is with the kids.
After this years 4th of July celebration I was visited by the chairman of the committee who praised Jeremy up and down; I have heard the same type of praise from each of the schools that Jeremy works in.
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Lacy Turner is assigned to the department’s Problem-Oriented Policing Unit, where she is tasked with trying to resolve quality of life issues within our community. She works extensively with the community’s youth, low income housing stakeholders, and ongoing community issues. In addition to this, she works extra hours as a school resource officer at Centennial Junior High School. Officer Turner is also a DARE Instructor and a field training officer. This past year, she proposed and implemented two new programs within our department; a peer support program and an officer mentor program for officers. These programs have had a tremendous effect on the well-being, success, and morale of our officers.
Despite her heavy load of extra duties and assignments, Officer Turner consistently performs at a high level regardless of what activity is being measured, self-initiated activity, traffic stops, citizen contacts, or calls for service. In her few short years with the department she has become a popular figure with our community’s youth and is a positive role model particularly for young women interested in law enforcement or criminal justice. Kaysville’s Mayor has called her the face of the department and other police departments frequently recruit her to join their force.
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The following nomination letter was written by Rosie Rivera, Chief of the Riverton PD:
On April 13, 2016, Detective Shane Laycock responded to an ambulance assist detail involving a 13 month old child. The child had fallen head-first into a cooler and was submerged in 6 inches of water for several minutes. Family members pulled the child from the cooler, the grandmother started CPR. When Officer Laycock arrived the child was lying on his back with family members kneeling next to him. The child had irregular and labored breathing, Detective Laycock performed chest compressions in hopes to speed up his heart rate. The child began to vomit water and his breathing improved, medical arrived shortly after and took over life saving efforts. Detective Laycock then assisted in directing Life Flight to the area, then he drove the grandfather to Primary Children's Hospital to be with the child. The child was able to make a full recovery and the family has been very grateful and appreciative for Detective Laycock's efforts.
Detective Shane Laycock is commended for his quick thinking, quick response and selfless dedication which saved the life of this young boy. His quick and confident response to this dynamic and emotionally charged incident is nothing short of exceptional and epitomize the highest standards of the Unified Police Department.
Detective Laycock responded to a baby drowning case, while it is not part of his normal duties he heard the call come out and immediately dropped what he was doing and responded on the call. Detective Laycock arrived before patrol officers and took life saving measures to save the child's life.
Detective Laycock has been a coach for little league baseball for many years, he enjoys spending time with youth and is a mentor for the team. Detective Laycock is a property crimes detective in Riverton, he assists with several community events throughout the year, to include Night out Against Crime, Whats up Riverton and Riverton Town days.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=41681691&title=detective-shane-laycock-riverton-police-department
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The following nomination letter was written by Nate Cline, Lieutenant with the Ogden City Police Department:
My name is Nate Cline, I am a Lieutenant with the Ogden City Police Department. I would like to nominate Ogden City Police Officer Zachary Nold for the KSL Beyond the Badge. This letter of recommendation highlights some of the reasons Officer Nold is worthy of such distinction and also recognizes how he is making life better for fellow officers, military veterans, their families and our citizens within our community.
In 2011 Ogden City Police Officer Zachary Nold joined the United States Army Reserves. During the years after his enlistment, his parents Joan and Roger Nold gained an interest in the much deserved issue, concerning the US Military Veterans suicide epidemic. Having been inspired by the “Lone Survivor” story involving Marcus Luttrell, founder of the Lone Survivor Foundation, Joan and Rodger helped raise funds for the Lone Survivor Foundation where a Labrador dog was raffled to raise funds and resulted in the dog becoming a service animal for a veteran. Labs for Liberty was then born and founded by the Nold’s. Labs for Liberty is a non-profit organization with two main objectives. Raise and train Labrador retrievers to be service animals for veterans and help veterans and their families heal through vacation retreats. Labs for Liberty has also become a healing agent for our local law enforcement community.
Officer Zachary Nold hired on with the Ogden City Police Department August 25th 2014. Not only has Officer Nold been a great asset and member of the department he has carried on his and his family’s passion through Labs for Liberty. Officer Nold has taken his board of director’s experience with Labs for Liberty and extended an organizational olive branch to members of the law enforcement family and community veterans in need. Officer Nold’s enthusiasm to help is over whelming. His positive attitude is infections and shows through several of the events he has been involved in. Officer Nold and his family quickly recognized how their organization could benefit their surrounding community. Understanding that police officers also face hardships when involved in a traumatic event, Labs for Liberty has been able to donate several dogs to law enforcement officers in need. Service animals are not only used to assist officers and veterans they are also a very important component in the healthy recovery and function of their families. Officer Nold’s passion has also created an avenue for law enforcement officers to become involved in community charitable events as well.
Officer Nold has continued to use his experience and connections to provide service animals and vacation retreats via the organizations “Liberty Outpost” which is a guesthouse located in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah, where officers, veterans, teammates and their families can relax, receive assistance and re-discover ways to successfully integrate back into the community. The organization also offers a way for community members to get actively involved in the healing process. Community members volunteer their services to assist, giving the community a direct link to take action and be part of the solution for their law enforcement community and military veterans in need of assistance. Examples include community members volunteering horses for rides, citizens volunteering to cook meals and fishing guides donating services for the individuals and family members.
Officer Nold’s story is more of an underlying appreciation for his law enforcement family and the realization that law enforcement has a large impact on its surrounding communities and the members within the community. Keeping our law enforcement officers and military veterans healthy and viable has a huge impact on the lasting relationships within the community. Officer Nold receives no compensation for his efforts nor has he ever asked for it, which is all the better reason he be nominated for such recognition. We are proud to have such an active and charitable officer within our ranks. Thank You.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=41627051&title=officer-zachary-nold-ogden-city-police-department
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The following nomination letter was written by Steve Adams, Spanish Fork City Chief of Police:
First use of Narcan by Officers of the Spanish Fork Police Department: Spanish Fork Police Officers were recently issued NARCAN an opioid reversal drug to be used on victims overdosing on an opioid such as heroin or synthetic drug. They had been caring NARCAN for two weeks when they had their first opportunity to use the life saving drug. On 05/25/16 at 2217 hours officers Dallas Smith and Cory Lewis responded to a home in Spanish Fork on a report of an overdose. Upon arrival the patient was found to be in cardiac arrest. . Officer Smith performed chest compressions while Officer Lewis provided air. While performing CPR, questions were asked of those present in an effort to determine why the patient was in cardiac arrest. In plain view officers observed heroin and other drug paraphernalia related to its use. Because of the evidence in plain view and information from those present Officers choose to administer Narcan. The first dose of Narcan was administrated without success of reviving the patient. Officers continued CPR and gave a second dose of Narcan. A short time later the patient began to have a heartbeat, breath on his own and was even communicating. His life was saved!
Officers Smith and Lewis are truly here to "Protect and Serve". Among many other things they have taken the time to be educated and be skilled in CPR and the use of Narcan. Because of their response and skills used this patient will have another day to change the path and direction of his life. He has been given a second chance that many others have not afforded that find themselves in this same position.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=41502048&title=officer-dallas-smith--officer-cory-lewis-spanish-fork-police-department
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The following nomination letter was written by John King, Provo City Chief of Police:
After serving our country in the United States Marine Corps, Sergeant Taylor joined the Provo Police Department in 2004. During the winter of 2014, while assigned to the graveyard patrol shift, the Sergeant was concerned for the welfare of the homeless people that he and his officers encountered during the winter nights. After doing some research Sergeant Taylor discovered an organization in Michigan that employed homeless people to make winter coats which converted into sleeping bags.
Sergeant Taylor raised enough money to buy 26 of those coats/sleeping bags and he distributed them to homeless people in need. Currently Sergeant Taylor is the supervisor of our School Resource Officers and has a meaningful impact on the safety of the children who attend school in Provo.
Sergeant Taylor has taken an active role in increasing the dialogue between our police officers and the minority members we serve. He actively participates in our quarterly "Conversations on Race," and attends community rallies.
In the Summer of 2015 Brian Taylor worked with a member of our Citizens Advisory Board to create a program which brought our officers and community members closer together. The "Summer of Fun" Series was repeated this year. Once a month during the summer season each of our four patrol areas of the city hosted an event in which police cooked hotdogs for our community. In addition to having positive conversations in a casual atmosphere each event had an interactive component wherein we played a game (volleyball, kickball, soccer and Frisbee)
Each and every day Sergeant Taylor comes to work looks for ways to make our city safer and to increase the level of trust between the police and the people we serve.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=41449646&title=sergeant-brian-taylor-provo-police-department
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The following nomination letter was written by Lane Findlay, Lieutenant in the Weber County Sheriff's Office:
Snowbird – On Tuesday, June 9th 2015, at the Utah Children’s Justice Symposium/Utah Prosecution Council Domestic Violence Conference, Detective Stephanie Tatton received the 2015 Utah Children’s Justice Center Program Multidisciplinary Team Award. Each year, this honor is bestowed upon one of Utah’s child abuse professionals who demonstrate tremendous commitment and courage as they work in the trenches of child abuse investigation and prosecution. They are truly the unsung heroes in Utah’s fight to protect its children. This prestigious accolade acknowledges the dedication it takes to be an effective member of the Children’s Justice Center Multidisciplinary Team.
Detective Tatton, who was recently promoted to sergeant, has served the past eight years as an investigator assigned to work cases involving crimes against children. Her unwavering commitment and professionalism has made a tremendous difference in the lives of the many children and families she has come in contact with.
Although Sgt. Tatton has been re-assigned as a patrol supervisor, she continues to be a strong advocate for child abuse victims through her involvement with the Children's Justice Center (CJC) in Ogden. Outside of her regular duties, she volunteers many hours at the CJC, assisting with child abuse investigations and organizing charitable events. At a recent fundraiser called Starry Nights, Sgt. Tatton was instrumental in helping the CJC raise over $13,000 in cash donations for drug testing for children who are endangered. She also helped organize the silent auction which helped raise thousands of dollars more for the center. In addition to the countless hours of volunteer work at the CJC event, she personally sponsored a table at the gala for all of the members of her patrol crew to be able to attend.
Sgt. Tatton's passion and commitment to public service, in particularly to the children of abuse, goes above and beyond her duty. Her exemplary service has and will continue to touch the lives of many victims, giving them a strong voice in their pursuit of justice and healing.
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The following nomination letter was written by Scott Brenkman, Chief of Police for the Riverdale Police Department:
Officer Rusty Bingham and Officer Trent Thompson responded on a call for service at a local business and while investigating that call they came upon an elderly male who was homeless. He was wet because it had been raining and it was quite cool outside at the time. The individual explained that he had family around the country, but did not want to bother them, he had recently lost his home and was staying in a nearby wooded area. His wallet had been stolen so he had no identification and because of that he was having difficulty finding a job and getting his social security benefits.
Officer Bingham and Thompson took him to a local motel and paid out of their own pockets for him to get a room so he could dry out, take a warm shower and try to get some rest so he could get back on his feet. They also bought food for him and had it delivered to the room. He had several bags of his belongings he was carrying and because of the weight of those bags he had difficulty walking and carrying them. They made arrangements to store some of his belongings at the police department while he tried to take care of his issues so he didn't have to pack his bags everywhere he went. Within the next few weeks they continued their contact with him and helped him get his state identification so he could collect his benefits and attempt to become employed. Several months later the police department received a letter from this individual expressing gratitude saying, he felt that these officers were angels sent from God to help him get through the difficult time he was experiencing. These two officers went far beyond the call of duty to serve someone in our community who was in dire need of help and did not know where to turn to get that help. They could have went on their way that day as the man was doing nothing wrong, but they seized an opportunity to serve and make someone's life better. I can't thank them enough for their generous act of kindness.
Officer Bingham and Officer Thompson throughout their careers have always sought out individuals to serve that were either down on their luck, or in need of a little extra help. Sometimes helping families provide Christmas gifts to their children who couldn't afford to, or stopping to mow the lawn, or shovel snow for an elderly person who was struggling to do so. They both thrive on the service oriented part of their job and never seek recognition. Most of the time we never find out about their acts of service until the benefactor steps forward to let us know.
RELATED LINKS Full Story (Radio Version) Interview with Officer Rusty Bingham & Officer Trent Thompson Interview with Chief Scott Brenkman 0 Pending1Comments More stories you may be interested in LDS Church responds to leaked videos of briefings for Mormon apostles Price man killed in crash on US 6 http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=41263374&title=officer-rusty-bingham--officer-trent-thompson-riverdale-police-department
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KSL Beyond the Badge: Lieutenant Drew Cox The following nomination letter was written by Mark Watkins, Chief of Police for the Naples Police Department.
Lieutenant Drew Cox is in charge of the K-9 program at the Naples Police Department. As a small community police officer (population 3,000) our opportunities are limited as well as our resources. Lt. Cox has dedicated his time and often donated his time to our K-9 program. In the last 8 years Lt. Cox has acquired his certifications to train K-9 dogs and their handlers. Doing so has allowed the Naples Police Department to place three drug/patrol dogs patrolling our jurisdiction in a police department of only 7 officers as well as assisting other jurisdictions. Naples is able to cut the cost of purchasing and training a K-9 from approx. $18,000 to approx. $5,000 per dog saving the community money and giving them an unlimited and very valuable resource. Just recently Lt. Cox has acquired a bomb dog that I believe may be the first bomb dog outside of the Wasatch front and certainly the first in the Uintah Basin and arguably a huge resource for the Basin. This dog cost the City of Naples nothing.
Lt Cox also has another passion that when he's not dog training he's a valiant and very talented child abuse investigator. I, as a 28 year veteran of law enforcement have never seen such compassion and dedication to investigate and illuminate child abuse, that in and of itself, is a hero in by book.
Lt, Cox is an invaluable asset to my police department and to the community that honestly I can’t do without but more important is the need for talents like Lt. Cox in smaller rural jurisdictions that are willing to dedicate and sacrifice for the community.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=41078640&title=lieutenant-drew-cox-naples-police-department
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KSL Beyond the Badge: Officer Elayne Franco, Logan City Police Department The following nomination letter was written by Lieutenant Brad Franke of Logan:
Officer Franco is a first generation US citizen. Her family emigrated to the United States from Guatemala before she was born. Officer Franco was raised in the Logan area and made the decision to seek a career in Law Enforcement after talking to local officers and learning of ways she could help her community. After sponsoring herself through the Utah Police Academy, Officer Franco applied and competed against many other applicants to become a Law Enforcement Officer for her home community. Officer Franco speaks fluent English and Spanish and takes great pride in her combined American/Latino heritage.
Officer Franco has served with Logan City for 2 1/2 years and very early in her career earned a reputation as a positive and energetic person who is highly respected by her coworkers, as well as anyone she comes in contact with. Her reputation though the department led her to be selected as a field training officer for new hire officers. Very early in her career she is already using her skills and abilities to train the newest generations of officers.
Officer Franco has served as a liaison to the Hispanic community of Cache Valley by participating in a Spanish Radio program to help inform Spanish speaking people of Utah's laws and helping to share crime prevention tips. Each week a specific topic was presented and then calls were taken from the public. This outreach by Officer Franco helped to share a positive message and answer questions to a some members of our community who otherwise would not feel comfortable interacting with an police officer.
Officer Franco has a heart and personality which causes her to serve everyone she comes in contact with. Recently she met with a local citizen at in a parking lot. This gentleman was with two small children and had left the residence he was staying after learning of ongoing drug use in the home. The man had very little money and found himself with nowhere to go for the weekend. After learning of the difficulties, and finding one of the children had physical special needs, Officer Franco transported this small family to a local motel and paid for a room with her own money. Officer Franco felt this man was trying to do the right thing for his children and she wanted to help support those decisions.
Officer Franco was recently recognized for her work in the new officer field training program and was also awarded as a Patrol Officer of the year for 2015 for our agency. She has the ability to be proactive and a statistical leader in productivity while constantly treating everyone with respect and kindness. A recent example of Officer Franco's service was shown when she contacted a local citizen during a graveyard shift. After learning the man had warrants, Officer Franco treated him with patience and kindness while still performing her duties. She took the extra time to help find a person to take custody of the offender's bicycle so he could still have his only transportation after his release. Later this man took the time to write Office Franco a letter thanking her for treating him respectfully and for taking the time to help him make arraignments before going to jail. It is quite rare for an officer to receive a thank you letter after taking someone to jail.
Officer Franco is a truly rare and exceptional person. She has the ability to hold people accountable for their actions while maintaining a kindness and personal attention which shows everyone she interacts with how much she cares about them. She is an outstanding example to the employees of our agency and our entire community.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40949652&title=officer-elayne-franco-logan-city-police-department
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KSL BEYOND THE BADGE: Officer Josue Llil The following nomination letter was written by Roxeanne Vainuku, Public Information Officer for West Valley City:
A BOY AND A BIRD: A couple weeks back, WVCPD Officer Llil handled a very special case; a stolen parakeet. His supervisor shared this story, "Julian, an 8 year old WVC resident, only had his parakeet, Prieto, for a couple days when it escaped his grasp and flew away for good. Julian's sadness was compounded when his family found a remarkably similar bird for sale on line. While the family suspected that the bird was their very own Prieto, they had no way to prove it and Officer Llil found himself with little recourse to help Julian. Not willing to leave Julian heartbroken, Officer Llil took it upon himself to make it right. Officer Llil spent his own money to buy a new parakeet for Julian. Julian was thrilled and this time, Neuvo Prieto has his wings clipped and should stay close by Julian's side."
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40892781&title=officer-josue-llil-west-valley-police-department
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KSL Beyond the Badge: Officer Stan Penrod The following nomination letter was written by Lieutenant Heath Rogers of the Syracuse Police Department:
Officer Stan Penrod teaches DARE in all of the Elementary Schools in Syracuse. Officer Penrod’s passion for helping youth and his teaching style are well known within the DARE community. The quality of his program is so well known that DAR UTAH requested that he serve as an instructor and mentor on the State team that teaches new DARE officers. Officer Penrod has been a keynote speaker as part of his partnership with DARE UTAH at graduation ceremonies for newly trained DARE officers.
Officer Penrod seeks out “at risk” youth in our community and works diligently to build relationships and trust with them. Officer Penrod has a unique way of working with these “at risk” youth. Officer Penrod often stops by to personally visit with them at their school and home, just to see how they are doing and to find out if there is anything he can do to help them be successful. Officer Penrod builds lasting bonds with these youth who often feel abandoned by the school system, friends, and sometimes their own parents and family. Teachers have commented on what a huge difference they see in a youth’s attitude when Officer Penrod mentors them.
Officer Penrod is so respected and looked up to by the youth in Syracuse that a large following of his DARE students and their parents attended this year’s Guns and Hoses charity game. Many brought handmade posters clearly showing their love and appreciation for Officer Penrod.
On January 23, 2014, at approximately 5:00 pm, Officer Penrod responded to a report of a child who had fallen through the ice at Jensen Pond. When Officer Penrod arrived he noticed the young boy struggling in the water. Officer Penrod grabbed a rope from his vehicle and threw it to the boy, but unfortunately the rope was too short. Officer Penrod stepped out on the ice in an attempt to get closer to the boy. The ice was not strong enough to support Officer Penrod and he fell into the freezing water. With some help from several bystanders, Officer Penrod was able to grab the boy and safely pull him to shore. Because of Officer Penrod’s heroic actions, by risking his own safety, a tragic outcome was avoided.
Officer Penrod has spent numerous hours over the years coaching youth in baseball, football, and wrestling. Officer Penrod spent six years as a volunteer assistant wrestling coach at Legacy Junior High in Layton. Officer Penrod is currently the head wrestling coach at Syracuse Junior High.
Officer Penrod has created a DARE TO BE GREAT Facebook page, which has many pictures of him going above and beyond his duty as he interacts with the youth in our community. Officer Penrod receives positive comments on this page due to the high level of respect that he has earned in the Syracuse Community with his work as the DARE Officer along with the other youth mentoring in which he is actively involved.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40762224&title=officer-stan-penrod-syracuse-police-department
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Beyond the Badge: Detective Denise Lovendahl The following nomination letter was written by Lawrence Johnson, Mayor of Taylorsville City:
Detective Denise Lovendahl has enjoyed a successful 18-year career in Law Enforcement. During her career Denise has been assigned to numerous specialty units; specifically the K-9 unit, the narcotics unit, street crimes, community oriented policing and direct enforcement with the U of U Police, the Unified Police Department and the Taylorsville Police Department.
Detective Lovendahl should be commended for her resolve in investigating and arresting some of our most violent and prolific career criminals. Her abilities make the City of Taylorsville a safer place to reside and visit. Any officer in this state would be proud to call her their partner.
In January and February of 2016, Detective Lovendahl was engaged in a large scale, cartel level, narcotics investigation. The investigation involved multiple suspects from several states and Mexico. Through her investigative abilities and tenacity, Detective Lovendahl seized nearly 10 pounds of Cocaine, two pounds of Heroin, $51,000 in U.S. currency, as well as other instruments used for the distribution of narcotics.
Detective Lovendahl gives a hundred percent in everything she applies herself to. She is especially vigilant when it comes to the vulnerable, specificallly children and the elderly, she'll be front line addressing their needs and helping to make them safe; she can be found doing this on and off duty.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40709001&title=detective-denise-lovendahl-taylorsville-city
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KSL Newsradio Beyond the Badge: Officer Keo Phetchamphone The following nomination letter was written by Captain Justin Chapman of the Sandy City Police Department:
Officer "Keo" (as he is often referred to) was on patrol one snowy day this winter, when he noticed an elderly woman struggling to shovel her driveway. We had just experienced a hefty snowstorm and due to the age and condition of the woman, she simply could not complete the task. Making things worse, she was taking care of her husband who was bedridden.
Recognizing her struggle and seeing the woman in need, Officer Keo stopped his patrol car, approached the woman, expressed his concern for her and shoveled her driveway. He then asked if she was okay or needed any other assistance. Having no other immediate needs, Officer Keo left that day and then checked on her the following day.
His duty as a police officer did not require him to do what he did, but rather his internal desire to help others compelled him. He and others in law enforcement quietly go about assisting those in our communities because they are good people. As a supervisor, I did not even known about this act of kindness until this very grateful woman wrote to share her appreciation.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40614227&title=officer-keo-phetchamphone-sandy-city-police-department
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KSL Newsradio Beyond the Badge: Officer Derek Dalton The following nomination letter was written by Sergeant Roger Williams:
Officer Derek Dalton was called to a concerned citizens complaint of an elderly disoriented woman walking on a deserted stretch of Redwood Road, at night, in the cold. Officer Dalton found the woman who stated she had just given up and was walking out to the desert to "just get away from it all." She stopped short of saying she was committing suicide but the inference was there. She had no money, no bedding, no food or water and she refused to go home. She had committed no crimes and did not meet the criteria for an involuntary mental health evaluation. We have limited resources available to house someone like this and Officer Dalton knew that a winter storm was quickly moving in. Officer Dalton offered counsel and eventually talked her into allowing him to pay for a hotel room for her for the night. Officer Dalton bought her a meal and checked her into a hotel with his own money. Several hours later concerned family members in a neighboring city reported that she was missing and was possibly suicidal. That police agency was able to locate the woman at the hotel based on Officer Dalton's report. The woman did suffer from a mental illness which was amplified due to improper medication levels. Without Officer Dalton's kind, caring compassion the woman may not have survived the night.
On another occasion Officer Dalton located a distraught, crying woman sitting in the drivers seat of her vehicle on the side of the road. He discovered that she had ran out of gas, her purse and phone were at home and she was scared and didn't know what to do. Officer Dalton took her to a gas station, purchased a gas can and some fuel with his own money. He took her back to her vehicle and got her on her way. He has done this on more than one occasion.
On another occasion Officer Dalton was called to the residence of a very "less fortunate" family. He helped them resolve their problem and while doing so he learned that they all loved soccer but one of the kids had a profound love of Real' Soccer. None of them had ever actually seen a game in person. Officer Dalton and his family are also huge soccer fans and hold season tickets to Real'. They rarely miss a game. Officer Dalton gave the family his tickets to the next game. The young fan was ecstatic!
On another call Officer Dalton responded to a baby in respiratory distress. He arrived well before the Fire Dept was able to get there. He ran into the house to find that the grandmother, who was baby sitting, was frantic and the baby was blue and only semi-conscious. Officer Dalton took the baby from the grandmother, turned the baby face down on his arm and administered several back blows. The baby gasped and took a breath then began crying. The Fire Dept arrived and took the baby to the hospital where they discovered that there was a penny lodged in the baby's throat. The back blows rotated the penny enough to allow airflow. Had it not been for Officer Dalton's quick response and actions, the baby may not have survived.
Officer Dalton is our K-9 Handler frequently gives demonstrations at our local schools where he is a very big hit with the kids. His positive influence on them is invaluable. The ripple effect of his compassion and kindness in this community is impossible to quantify but there is no question, he has found his calling and that is to serve and protect.
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40519246&title=officer-derek-dalton-saratoga-springs-police-department
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The following nomination letter was written by Tooele Police Chief Ron Kirby.
Officer Tanya Turnbow has taken it upon herself to do all that she can in the area of suicide prevention. Officer Turnbow is constantly looking for opportunities to reach out with her prevention efforts in any way possible. She teaches QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) throughout the community. Her reach is extended by partnering with CTC (Communities That Care), the Health Department, the Tooele County School District, and others.
Recently a man came to the Tooele City Council meeting and expressed a very emotional and heart-felt thank you for saving his son's life because of Tooele City's (i.e. Officer Turnbows) efforts in suicide prevention. I can get you his information and I am sure that he would be willing to do an interview.
Officer Turnbow also serves as Tooele County's primary medical examiner responding to many suicides throughout the county. She often meets with family members following a suicide in her capacity as a medical examiner and she has been greatly affected by her experiences. She in now also a trainer in "Suicide Postvention."
With support from the Health Department and Tooele City Officer Turnbow recently attended the National Conference on Suicidology where she was possibly the only police officer in attendance.
Read more: http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40402603&title=officer-tanya-turnbow-tooele-city-police-department
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The following nomination letter was written by Melinda Greenwood, City Administrator for Pleasant View City:
On Friday, April 15, my husband sent me a text regarding three of "my officers" saving an injured dog who was trapped in an empty canal. I later found out that Officer Brady Benson, Officer Robbie Done and Sergeant Corey Clark all participated in the effort of saving and befriending an injured dog.
It was a job well done for all three officers! After receiving a call from workers about a dog stuck in the canal with a broken leg, Officer Brady Benson, Officer Robbie Done and Sergeant Corey Clark all responded to the scene. They were informed that the canal workers had attempted to get the dog out, but their attempts were unsuccessful as the dog would growl at them and not allow them near him.
Our officers eventually found the dog, which was outside of Pleasant View City limits and into Box Elder County. When they saw the dog, without hesitation, Officer Benson jumped in to the canal and carefully approached the dog. It took an hour, but Officer Benson eventually gained the trust of the dog and was finally able to pet him and calm him down. During that time, the dog would growl at him as he was obviously scared, cold and in pain from his injuries.
Officer Benson was then able to get a sheet underneath the dog and with the help of Sergeant Clark and Officer Done, all three were able to get the dog out of the canal safely. Officer Benson also attempted to phone the owner, but was unsuccessful, so the animal was transported to a local vet where a broken leg was confirmed.
After finally reaching the owners, they were happily reunited with Max, their dog! The canal company was in the process of turning irrigation water on, so it seems the dog was found just in time. Officer Benson showed great compassion and patience through this canine rescue effort. Sergeant Clark and Officer are also to be commended for their assistance on the call.
We have a great police force here in Pleasant View!
Read More: http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40294138&title=officer-brady-benson-pleasant-view-city-police-department
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Officer Jason Harvey Aurora City Police Department
The following nomination letter was written by Clint Johnson, City Recorder for Aurora City:
Aurora City is a very small community in the Northern part of Sevier County. We have a very small, part time police department but that doesn't always mean that our problems are small or part-time. Officer Harvey works full time for Sevier County and then on his time off he works for Aurora City as the Police Chief.
He has made it his goal to get to know every member of the community along with and especially the young people. He serves in the community working with teenage boys in an LDS Church calling and they look to him as an example. He has always been interested in their lives and is always just as excited as they are when they turn 16 and receive their driver's license. Many of these young people have grown up working on their family's farm so driving can begin at an early age but Officer Harvey is very conscientious about the rural setting and has been there offer help and to make certain that all are safe. The safety of the community and the citizens is always the most important thing for him.
Aurora City is located on state route 280 which is an important road where people travel from Highway 50 to get to Interstate 70. We have many travelers come through our community on a daily basis and Officer Harvey helps to keep those travelers safe and the citizens in our community safe as well.
Aurora City has received numerous letters from individuals whom Officer Harvey has stopped expressing their gratitude for his professional and yet understanding nature. He has helped in the community with some domestic violence situations which can turn ugly but he has helped to diffuse those situations. Officer Harvey has a caring personality and we are Aurora City are very grateful for his good work and efforts
Read more: http://www.ksl.com/?nid=462&sid=40185887&title=officer-jason-harvey-aurora-city-police-department
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The following nomination letter was written by Police Chief Lance Call of the American Fork Police Department:
Officer Brain Morgan, an eleven year veteran of police service, was called to the home of the Davenport family about mid-day on April 7, 2016. Tyler Davenport reported to Officer Morgan that his two daughters, 5 year old Kimberly (Kimmie) and 10 year old Laura, had been outside jumping on the family trampoline with friends, when three Jr. High age boys walked by the house. One of the boys picked up Kimmie's brand new "Frozen" scooter and started riding off with it. The frantic girls yelled at the boys to leave the scooter but to no avail. Kimmie's scooter was gone. Kimmie was crestfallen.
After gathering all the necessary information for the police report, Officer Morgan spent some time searching the neighborhood for the stolen scooter. It isn't uncommon that the thief of a bicycle or scooter will ride it for a couple of blocks or to their intended destination and then abandon it. In spite of his best efforts, Officer Morgan could not locate Kimmie's "Frozen" scooter.
Because Officer Morgan is the father of an eight year old daughter and a set of seven year old twin boys, he could appreciate the heartbreak Kimmie was experiencing due to the loss of her "Frozen" scooter.
Officer Morgan called up Mr. Davenport later in the afternoon and reported he had diligently searched for the scooter, but couldn't find it. Officer Morgan quizzed the dad about the specific details of the scooter - its manufacturer, model, and color scheme. Mr. Davenport just thought Officer Morgan was being thorough in his investigation by getting every detail he could about the scooter.
Later in the afternoon, Officer Morgan showed back up at the Davenport home with a brand new Huffy "Frozen" scooter in hand. Without fanfare or the knowledge of his fellow officers, Officer Morgan had gone to a nearby retailer and with his own money purchased an identical scooter for Kimmie. When Officer Morgan presented the new scooter to Kimmie, she was thrilled. Her dad reported later in a "Thank You" letter written the following day to the department, that Kimmie had been delighted and had spent the rest of the afternoon riding the scooter and showing it off to everyone.
Officer Morgan could have just taken the police report of the stolen scooter and moved on to the next call for service, but instead he elected to heal a broken heart and restore a family's faith in their fellowman.
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A Utah officer polices the streets despite a terrifying incident in his first few months on the job that could have cut his career very short.
On Dec. 13, 2012, officer Jared Jensen was four months into his service with the Sunset Police Department when he came face to face with a man who had a grudge.
"It was a scary thing that you don't really expect to happen," he said.
"I noticed this individual on the north side of the road, kind of giving me an odd stare," he explained. "He lifted up his sweatshirt and pulled a handgun from his waistband and continued to fire eight rounds into my vehicle."
Several of those shots hit the vehicle's window, Jensen noted. "One hit our little plastic plexi-glass frame we have between our drivers seat and our cage. It's merely plexi-glass, however that day it stopped a bullet."
"More progressed through the window, coming across my steering wheel and into the computer we have mounted over here," he continued. "I believe there were two in the computer, several glanced off the steering wheel again, one impacted the seat just behind me and ended up in our door."
Eight bullets were fired and went "through the driver side, across my body, into the passenger side of the vehicle," Jensen said.
Yet, not a single one struck Jensen.
"I still don't understand how it happened the way that it did and I'm able to be here and discuss it with you guys," he added.
Officers from across the Wasatch Front raced to the scene that day.
"That was an amazing sound at that moment hearing all the sirens and on the radio, people coming from Kaysville and North Salt Lake and Weber County. The response, the brotherhood, and the family that we talk about was real for me that day."
Someone also rushed to his side that night — an officer who is family in blue and family by blood. Jensen's father is Logan Police Chief Gary Jensen.
"It wasn't police instinct. It was parental instinct," he said. "Not wanting to admit too much on TV, I think I broke the speed limit getting to Clinton that night."
Chief Jensen was shocked at what his son survived.
"As I came out to the scene and actually saw the vehicle and saw the bullet holes, it was frightening," he said.
Officers found the gunman 40 minutes later, casually making a phone call. Zane Openshaw admitted he was waiting for a police officer to drive by that night. Now, nearly four years later, he remains incarcerated at the Utah State Prison.
Four years later, officer Jensen vividly remembers what happened that night.
"The thud of (bullets) impacting the metal, hearing them come through the glass as well," he said.
"It's just a sound and experience that I'll never forget. I mean, I drive that same road every day. Every day in my patrol responsibilities I travel that same road. It's something I think about and remember often. In a way, I think that's good. It kind of keeps me on my toes, ready to handle an incident like that if it were to happen again," he said.
"I'm proud of him for what he does and how he represents himself as a police officer," Chief Jensen said.
He still worries about his son and his choice to follow in his footsteps. But it's a career choice even eight bullets and a brush with death couldn't alter.
"My mother and my wife and people that I'm sure care about me discussed it, but this is the career I have chosen. It's a career I love and it's a career I feel is needed in society. I want to be a part in making my community I work for a better place," officer Jensen said.
He uses his experience to teach and train new police officers at the Weber State Police Academy. He's also a member of the V-FAST fugitive task force, tracking down violent offenders.
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I would like to nominate our School Resource officer Cynthia Archuleta. She is known by the students at Hillcrest High School as Officer Archi. Det. Archuleta took over as the School Resource Officer just prior to the Canyons School District moving the 9th Grade students in the High School. This presented some very difficult challenges for her to try and help the school assimilate the new students into the high school system. She not only made the new students feel safe, she became their advocate in helping them to feel welcome. She works with the school administration on a regular basis and she always has their respect and appreciation. I am always hearing comments of praise from them about her work there. Just to name a few of her accomplishments at the school she serves as a volunteer para-educator coach for the girls softball team bringing not only talent development but development of each individual player to assure they are having fun playing the game with the team and learning the valuable lessons that competitive sports afford in development of character and hard work. Detective Archuleta provides a calming influence to all she meets with—including students in very difficult situations who are facing criminal charges for poor personal decisions. She developed and implemented a new program that monitors on a more regular basis the at risk students who were placed in a program that had limited monitoring prior to her program. She solicited and obtained a grant that gave her money to provide a reward system for students who followed the guidelines set out for them in their at risk program. This proved to be very successful.
Det. Archuleta developed a campaign to address the high school student’s texting and driving dangers. She conducted a pre-survey at the school asking questions about texting and driving to determine what their knowledge was about the dangers. She put the education campaign into place by advertising “prevent distracted driving”. She had students make up posters that were hung around the school. She had a large banner made up by the student that hung in the main lobby. She had “0 fatality” drop of the “0 fatality” crashed vehicle and had it sit at the school for a week. She made public address announcements every morning with trivia questions about the dangers where they had to find her and answer the questions to win prizes. She had a drawing for a hands free blue tooth devise. She produced a 10 minute video about distracted driving that was nothing short of spectacular. She showed the video to all of the students on the classroom and at assemblies. You can see the video by going to www.hhs.canyonsdistrict.org. She had thumb rings made and passed out to all of the students that say “Text Free Driver” and “Texting Kills”. She then conducted another survey to see if their knowledge of the dangers improved. The results were very successful.
Det. Archi’s student all love her and are all influenced in a positive way on a daily basis. She is very deserving of this recognition. Please consider her for this recognition.
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Nominated by Police Chief Mike Brown:
"Sergeant Joe Cyr currently supervises the Homeless Outreach Service Team (HOST) and the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) for the Salt Lake City Police Department. Joe has a wide range of experience as a leader.
Joe continually goes above and beyond in his role with the most marginalized members of our community. The homeless, drug addicted, and mentally ill struggle in many aspects of their lives. Joe has embraced the paradigm of officers attempting to solve the "root" problem as opposed to the symptoms.
Joe has built extremely valuable relationships with many of homeless and knows them by name. Joe epitomizes the Henry Thoreau quote "There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root."
As a police sergeant, Joe has a significant influence over newer officers. Joe, and his entire team, has made a difference to those in need and is a true asset to our Department and the community as a whole."
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Below is the nomination, which comes from a letter given to Trooper Craig Youngberg from his Sergeant.
To: Trooper Craig Youngberg From: Sergeant Brandon Whitehead
It came to my attention that you responded to the report of a multi-vehicle accident in the westbound lanes of I-84 near Taggart’s during the evening hours of March 3, 2016. The rest of your crew was tied up on a semi crash that was blocking nearly the entire southbound interstate of I-15 including the on ramp from 24th Street. Without hesitation, you responded to the multi-vehicle crash once the scene was controlled for the semi crash.
During the night it had been raining hard and the mountain side had become saturated with water. Several rocks of various size had rolled down off the mountainous outcrop and landed in the travel lanes of I-84. You took care of business and filled out the required paperwork, getting all but one motorist on their way. The particular vehicle which was not able to get on its way was occupied by a young Hispanic couple, on their way to an out of state funeral. This particular couple had limited financial means, complicating their ability to negotiate with a tow truck to move them to a safe location.
Upon learning of their financial quandary, you offered to give the tow truck driver $50.00 which would allow them to pay the bill to get towed off the freeway. The tow truck driver refused to take money from you, and agreed to tow them off to the Best Western in Uintah for the money they had. Once the couple and their vehicle had been towed to the Uintah Best Western, adjacent to a Goodyear Tire shop, you went even further. Upon learning they planned to stay the night in their vehicle, you used your personal money to secure a motel room for the couple, to allow them to have more pleasant accommodations, to the tune of nearly $100.00.
Trooper Youngberg, your actions that evening exemplify what it truly means to serve the public, above and beyond any reasonable expectation set forth by me or the department. In a turbulent time of the outspoken minority shrieking and complaining about alleged officer misconduct and improprieties, your actions speak loud and clear about the professional, caring, men and women we call State Troopers.
As your sergeant and direct supervisor, I could not be more proud of your actions. What you did for this couple in their personal moment of despair speaks volumes about your character and core values. It is people like you Trooper Youngberg, who absolutely bring honor to this department and the moral fabric it is constructed from. Let this letter of commendation serve as a small token gesture of my personal appreciation for your actions and compassion for your fellow man.
On behalf of the department, thank you for all you do in serving the community.
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Trooper Justin Hansen was nominated by Keith Squires, Utah's Commissioner of Public Safety, who wrote the following letter:
"The intention of this email is to explain (or attempt to explain) why I think Justin Hansen is a great asset to the Department of Public Safety but especially to the Aero Bureau. I will list a couple of bullet points or characteristic traits and give a few examples and stories about him:
- Dedication and commitment - It is not always as easy and glamorous to be a TFO as people think. There are many late night call outs that result in long hours. The TFO position is a secondary assignment with a very high knowledge and efficiency requirement and in order to maintain that knowledge and efficiency there is a lot of training required. It also requires a lot of the TFO's own time to be proficient at the various tools. Justin has shown a very high interest level and a strong desire to be the best he can be, often calling me in the evening or early morning just to discuss an idea that he had to make the unit better. He puts in a full time effort for a part time assignment.
Advertise with usReport this ad - Professional - One of Justin's greatest talents is his ability to professionally talk to whomever we are working with. The helicopter is used to support agencies throughout the state. When we arrive on scene it is the TFO's job to brief with the Sheriff or Search and Rescue Commander to come up with a plan of how to use the helicopter. Every situation is different and I have been very impressed with the way Justin has represented the Highway Patro and DPSl in these situations. He has always been able to meet the needs of the Sheriff and devise a safe plan of action for the helicopter crew.
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"Street Smarts" - I briefly mentioned above that every situation that we go to is different. One of the things that makes Justin so valuable to our unit is his "street smarts" or his common sense. Flying in the helicopter presents its own challenges and trying to use all of our tools to the benefit of the mission would test the abilities of any Trooper. Justin has the ability to overcome these challenges and be very effective. He has great ideas on where we could be of most use, and what we need to do to be effective.
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Kind - I know that this is usually not something that people think of when they think of Police Officers. When we rescue people they are having a very bad day. The whole situation can seem intimidating, they are embarrassed that the helicopter had to be called. It would be very easy in these situations for the TFO to just load the victim into the helicopter and transport them the couple of minutes to the command post and then leave. Justin goes out of his way to make sure the victims are comfortable with the situation and that their needs are met before we depart.
There is a lot more I could say about what Justin adds to our unit, but to avoid sounding like this is a eulogy I will end there with the bullet points. Justin has been on numerous rescues where his actions have directly affected the outcome of the mission. There are people alive in this state because of the things that he has done. Last September he was on the mission to search for a missing hiker on Lone Peak, the hiker was located but deceased. Recovery efforts were underway when the rope from one the rescuers on the ground was pulled into the main rotor causing significant damage. The helicopter spent about 15 seconds rotating very rapidly and hitting into the side of the mountain, but was able to fly away and land safely. Justin suffered a severe concussion and whiplash from this incident. Even though he has been out of work since the incident, he usually doesn't let more than two days go by without calling me to see how things are going in the unit, with an idea on how to improve, and express a desire to get back to work."
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