Mayor Kristie Overson and TVPD officers joined local PTA groups this past month to promote Read Across America by serving as guest readers in several elementary schools. We learned that reading the fifth-grade goal of 20 minutes a day at 120 words per minute really adds up, with these totals:
Now, consider this: On average, a police officer reads and writes at least 15-20 reports per week, totaling more than 15,000 words. And Mayor Overson? We estimate she reads and writes reports numbering in the hundreds of pages each month.
So, fifth-graders, grab your favorite book and keep on reading — your future self will thank you!
TVPD Assists in Theft-Ring Arrests of 2 Fugitives
TVPD Directed Enforcement detectives, in collaboration with Orem PD and ICE Removal Operations, recently arrested two wanted fugitives connected to an international organized retail theft ring. These individuals are believed to have been involved in the theft of more than $500,000 in merchandise nationwide over the past year.
They were also believed to be connected to numerous thefts occurring locally across Davis, Salt Lake and Utah counties. The suspects were ultimately taken into custody in Park City. They first came to TVPD’s attention after attempting to steal from Ulta in Taylorsville. During the arrest, approximately $15,000 worth of stolen property was recovered.
Employee of the Month
Congratulations to Officer Jones, our latest Employee of the Month! Officer Jones joined TVPD approximately nine months ago. Prior to his time with us, he served with the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office and the West Jordan Police Department. His extensive experience includes roles as a correctional officer, housing deputy, MCIRT deputy, patrol officer, narcotics/street crimes detective, field training officer and crisis intervention officer. He is currently assigned to our patrol division and brings with him more than 16 years of law enforcement experience.
Officer Jones was nominated for this award by his patrol supervisor, Sgt. Carver, for his “exceptional dedication to TVPD, his patrol shift and the City of Taylorsville.” Sgt. Carver noted that he “brought a wealth of experience from his previous service and has quickly become an asset to the team.”
Among his recent contributions, Officer Jones took the lead on two separate cases, both of which required authoring a residential search warrant. His efforts led to the apprehension of the suspects in each case. Collectively, the investigations resulted in the removal of illegal substances and a firearm from a volatile domestic violence situation involving mental illness.
In another case, Sgt. Carver said, Officer Jones investigated a wave of graffiti incidents that had “affected the community’s sense of pride.” His diligent investigative work led to the identification of the suspect, and his “proactive approach continues to have a significant positive impact.”
While investigations of this nature are sometimes turned over to detectives, the caliber of every officer serving at TVPD often allows for quicker and more effective outcomes. Officer Jones exemplifies this initiative, confidence and professionalism.
When he's not leading investigations or serving our community, Officer Jones enjoys photography, camping and simply spending time outdoors. Thank you, Officer Jones, for your service and dedication!