PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT

January 16, 2023

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact Information: PolicePRUnit@slcgov.com

SLCPD Liberty Bike Squad Wins NAACP First Responder Award

SALT LAKE CITY — Today, the Salt Lake branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) awarded the Salt Lake City Police Department’s Liberty Bike Squad the NAACP First Responder Award.

“This award is greatly appreciated and highlights the dedication of the women and men of the Salt Lake City Police Department,” said SLCPD Chief Mike Brown. “Our bike squads are instrumental to our department and community. With energy, passion and intentionality the Liberty Bike Squad addresses the evolving needs – no matter the size – of our community and helps to support our overall mission of keeping our city safe and thriving.”

In 2022, the Liberty Bike Squad, led by Sergeant Allen Christensen, made 175 felony arrests, seized 11 firearms, recovered 52 occupied stolen vehicles, seize more than $8,000 in asset forfeiture and seized more than 6,550 grams of illegal narcotics.

“The Liberty Bike Squad consistently works hard. They are an enormous contribution to crime reduction in Salt Lake City,” said SLCPD Captain Charli Goodman, the Liberty Division Commander. “Not only do they work proactively throughout the Liberty Division, but they are routinely helping other divisions in Salt Lake City.”

SLCPD Lieutenant Jared Gilbert, a Watch Commander for Liberty Division, highlighted the Liberty Bike Squad’s efforts of seizing illegally possessed firearms and locating stolen vehicles.

“While the number of crimes prevented by a recovered gun can’t be measured, anything done to reduce gun violence in our community will have a considerable impact,” Lt. Gilbert said. “I cannot imagine what I would do if I woke up and my car was gone. Everyday tasks like going to the grocery store, going to work, or dropping off kids at school become problematic and burdensome for victims of car theft. The Liberty Bike Squad works to minimize disruption to victims by recovering stolen cars and holding offenders accountable.”

The NAACP First Responders Award is presented to an individual or group of first responders for outstanding community service, actions of valor on or off duty or exemplary law enforcement service.

In 2021, three SLCPD officers received the NAACP’s 37^th annual First Responder Award.

The Salt Lake City Police Department recognizes NAACP President  Jeanetta Williams for her dedication to our community.

Additional photos from today’s award ceremony are posted to the SLCPD’s website.

Media may use these photos with proper credit to the Salt Lake City Police Department.

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