PUBLIC RELATIONS UNIT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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SLCPD Investigating Hate-Fueled Incident, Tips Requested from Community

SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Police Department is investigating a burglary and criminal mischief at a local beauty salon as a hate crime.

This investigation started at 2:47 a.m. on Thursday, December 7, 2023, when a community member witnessed a burglary occurring at a business located at 315 West 600 South.

According to the preliminary investigation, the suspect entered the salon by breaking out the front glass door. Once inside, the suspect caused significant damage to the business. The damage also included a hate-fueled phrase sprayed onto the salon’s wall in black paint.

The total damage is estimated to be approximately $15,000.

The suspect left the area with two other men.

The description of the three men is not specific enough for release. Detectives will conduct follow-up to identify all three men.

Officers spoke with the business owner but have not been able to determine the specific motive or identify any one involved.

Due to the hate-speech used in furtherance of the burglary and criminal mischief, this case is being investigated as a hate crime.

Detectives with the Salt Lake City Police Department are asking for anyone with information on this case to contact 801-799-3000 and reference case 23-274253.

There are no photos or video of the three men to release.

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

The Department is a part of the “Community Partners Against Hate” initiative that brings city, regional, and state leaders together to condemn hate. In 2023, the group released a PSA to “Stand Up to Hate and Report.”

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 survivor 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.

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