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Sean D. Reyes
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AG Reyes Pays Tribute to Law Enforcement in Utah’s Salute to Law and Order

SALT LAKE CITY (Jan. 29, 2015) — Today, in the Utah State Capitol Hall of Governors, reflections of fallen officers were shared. Heroes by the names of Sgt. Cory Wride, Sgt. Derek Johnson, Trooper Aaron Beesley, Officer Jared Francom and Deputy Brian Harris were each remembered for their courage, their innate desire to protect and serve others, and ultimately their untimely deaths while serving as peace officers. The five represented all fallen Utah officers and the event was organized by Iron County Commissioner Dale Brinkerhoff and other county commissioners to show support for the law enforcement community.

Attorney General Sean Reyes joined Beaver County Commissioner Mark Whitney, Salt Lake County Mayor Ben McAdams and Utah Lt. Gov. Spencer Cox in saluting Utah’s law enforcement. After recognizing the families of the fallen, General Reyes asked the Utah Attorney General officers, taking up three full rows, to stand. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all who put their lives on the line on a daily basis and expressed that when asked what he wanted for Christmas last month, his greatest desire was safety for the officers in his office and throughout the state. He was relieved to report that his wish was a reality during that time period.

AG Reyes shared a recent conversation with a Utah Highway Patrol trooper who expressed the current general tension towards officers as palpable. The trooper went on to express that he often feels that the people he is supposed to protect view him with distrust and distaste. General Reyes urged the officers in the audience, “Now, as the voices of criticism are the loudest, unless you have violated the people’s trust, you should never feel ashamed to wear your uniform proudly. We stand with you and seek ways to support you.”

There are over 35 POST certified state peace officers in the Utah Attorney General’s Office working a wide range of internal and collaborative cases. Special units include:

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