PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT

November 15, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact Information: PolicePRUnit@slcgov.com

Media Request Form: https://slcpd.com/mediarequest/

SLCPD Investigating Vandalism at Utah Pride Center

SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Police Department is asking for community tips to help with an investigation into a vandalism at the Utah Pride Center.

This investigation started at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, when a Pride Center volunteer noticed hate speech spray painted on the main sign of the center, located at 1380 South Main Street.

Staff members have since removed the hate speech from the sign.

Officers believe the vandalism occurred sometime on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 before 4 p.m.

The Salt Lake City Police Department is asking anyone with information to call 801-799-3000.

A photo of the Utah Pride Center is being released. Media may use this photo with credit to the Salt Lake City Police Department.

In October 2023, Chief Mike Brown joined community members and released a public service announcement as being a partner against hate.

In Utah, a hate crime is a criminal offense committed against a person or property that is motivated by the offender’s bias or prejudice against the victim.

The Salt Lake City Police Department recognizes our responsibility to investigate hate crimes thoroughly and impartially to hold offenders accountable and ensure justice for victims. The Salt Lake City Police Department educates its officers and works with the community to recognize and condemn hate crimes and works to prevent them from occurring in the future.

The effects of a hate crime can be devastating and long-lasting for both the individual victim and the larger community.

If you are the victim of a hate crime or witness a hate crime, it is important to report it to the appropriate authorities so the case can be investigated, and support and resources offered.

• Call 9-1-1: If the crime is in-progress or there is an immediate threat to the safety of yourself or others.

• File a police report by calling 801-799-3000 and asking to speak with an officer about filing a hate crime report.

• Request assistance from an SLCPD Victim Advocate. You can call 801-799-3000 and ask to speak with a victim advocate or call 801-580-7969 24/7.

1 – Photo of the Utah Pride Center (SLCPD photo \ November 15, 2023).

###