As the new school year begins, TVPD reminds drivers, parents and students to make safety a top priority. School days are a crucial time to slow down, pay attention and help keep kids safe. 

We urge motorists to obey posted limits in school zones, watch for crossing guards and stay alert near crosswalks and bus stops. Students and parents are encouraged to always use crosswalks, look both ways before crossing and avoid distractions like cellphones or headphones. Walking in groups can also increase visibility. Remember, too, that it's against the law for drivers to pass a stopped school bus with flashing red lights. 

We also encourage families to review safety plans with their children, including safe walking routes and what to do if they feel unsafe on the way to or from school. Taking a few minutes at the start of the year to prepare can make a big difference. 

“Our officers and school crossing guards work diligently each school day, but safety really starts with all of us,” said Taylorsville Police Chief Brady Cottam. “We thank drivers for looking out for students, and we wish all our students a school year filled with learning, laughter and new adventures."

2 Employees of the Month

Congratulations to Officer Hood and Det. Tan, our most recent Employees of the Month! 

If this article seems familiar, it’s because both Det. Tan and Officer Hood frequently appear in connection with excellence. They have each been nominated and awarded Employee of the Month several times before. 

Det. Tan has served in law enforcement for more than 12 years and is currently assigned to our Violent Crimes Unit. He is also a member of the Salt Lake County Officer-Involved Critical Incident Investigation Team. Prior to joining Taylorsville Police Department, he served our community as an officer with the West Valley City Police Department. 

Over the years, Det. Tan has gained extensive experience working as both a patrol officer and a detective. He has served in specialized units including homicide, street crimes, internet crimes against children, and the U.S. Marshals Violent Fugitive Apprehension Team. He holds a degree in education, and his combined experience and academic background are invaluable assets to our agency and the community we serve. 

Det. Tan was nominated by Officer Sykes, who recently worked with him on a complex aggravated assault case that required “all hands-on deck.” Officer Sykes remarked that Det. Tan “consistently demonstrates outstanding leadership and a strong willingness to assist regardless of the day or time.” 

True to his humble nature, Det. Tan attributes any investigative success to the strength of the team, stating, “You cannot solve a case on your own; you need a team of great cops.” 

Outside of work, Det. Tan enjoys off-roading, cooking and traveling. Thank you, Detective Tan, for your unwavering service to law enforcement and for being an integral part of Team Taylorsville. 

Officer Hood also is a critical part of TVPD. Before joining the department, Officer Hood served with both the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office and the West Jordan Police Department. Officer Hood has served in numerous specialized roles that make him an exceptionally well-rounded officer. His career experience includes patrol officer, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) officer, Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) member, Violent Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team (VFAST) member, School Resource Officer (SRO), juvenile crimes detective, property crimes detective, field training officer, firearms instructor, phlebotomist, and peer support officer. In addition, he holds a degree in criminal justice. 

Chief Cottam nominated Officer Hood as TVPD’s Employee of the Month, in recognition of his outstanding performance as a lead patrol officer combined with his consistent leadership across nearly every measurable area of responsibility. Chief Cottam stated he “appreciates Officer Hood’s work ethic and dedication.” This recognition marks the third time Officer Hood has received TVPD’s EOTM; an achievement that underscores the caliber of officer he is. 

In January 2023, Officer Hood was recognized for his role in safely resolving a volatile domestic dispute involving an armed suspect with a history of reckless behavior. By coordinating with local authorities, sharing critical information, and calmly directing resources, his efforts directly contributed to the suspect’s arrest. Later, in August 2023, he was again recognized for leading the implementation of a dynamic firearms training course at TVPD. Working with other instructors, he emphasized safety, tactical skills and community protection. 

Officer Hood is a tremendous asset to TVPD. Outside of his professional duties, Officer Hood enjoys spending time with his family. His hobbies include camping, hiking, four-wheeling, soccer, swimming, scuba diving and traveling the world. 

Thank you, Officer Hood, for your service, leadership and dedication to both the department and the community!