What does the Utah Highway Patrol do?

The Utah Highway Patrol has never been given a task they did not complete, regardless of the risk to their lives. A proud tradition that spans over 77 years teaches that the men and women of the Utah Highway Patrol vigorously respond to any challenge, any time of the day or night. We are proud of our people and our people serve with pride.

There have been fourteen State Troopers killed in the line of duty while protecting the people of the State of Utah. Tragedy can strike these officers anywhere, any time. Since 1990 alone, six Utah State Troopers have been killed in the line of duty.

A career as a State Trooper is a double-edged blade. In general, people respect and appreciate our Troopers. There are those who don't. Some are angry with us because we gave them a speeding ticket while others despise us for when we arrested them or their friend for drunk driving. Our careers are about more than just "chasing taillights". It is about making a difference in our communities.

Ordinary actions? ...Extraordinary Results!

So just what does the UTAH HIGHWAY PATROL do? In 1999, State Troopers handled over 16,000 collisions. State Troopers are recognized for their collision investigation skills. They arrested over 7,000 DUI's…Yes, Seven Thousand Drunk Drivers! Utah State Troopers are very proactive in drug interdiction and made over 4,600 drug-related arrests, keeping over $5,000,000.00  (that's five million $)  worth of drugs off our streets. And State Troopers served over 500 Felony Arrest Warrants and over 6,000 Misdemeanor Arrest Warrants. On top of that, we recovered over 500 Stolen Vehicles. And we were still available to help the public with various roadside emergencies. Our truck inspection Troopers contacted 12,000 commercial vehicles. Our Special Emergency Response Team is trained to help in the raids of potential illegal drug labs. We also have a group of State Troopers who provide security for the Governor and visiting V.I.P.,s. From the car rally in Logan to Spring Break in St. George, State Troopers are there to ensure our people enjoy a fun and safe event.

Ordinary Actions? ...Extraordinary Results!

State Troopers are credited with many heroic efforts. One example close to home; In 1998, there was an armored car robbery in California where one of the guards was killed by his co-worker. The murderer took the money from the armored car and fled the area. He paid cash for a van in California and then came east into Utah. On regular patrol, a Utah State Trooper observed a van on I-15 in Davis County. The vehicle did not have any license plates so the Trooper initiated a routine traffic stop. After a brief investigation the murderer was taken into custody.

Ordinary actions? ...Extraordinary Results!

The Utah Highway Patrol is respected as one of the most professional police departments in the United States. We are hopeful that by understanding some of the things we do for our residents, communities and state, you, as a respectable citizen, will voice your support of our efforts. Please contact your legislator and express your appreciation for the support they provide us so that we may make your environment more pleasant and safe!

Ordinary actions! ...Extraordinary Results!