FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 29, 2025

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PolicePIO@slc.gov

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SLCPD Pioneer Patrol Officers Arrest Man on Drug Distribution and Weapons Charges on Jordan River Trail

SALT LAKE CITY — Officers with the Salt Lake City Police Department’s (SLCPD) Pioneer Patrol Division have arrested a man on drug and weapons-related charges after an enforcement effort along the Jordan River Trail.

This investigation started around 6:51 a.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, when officers saw what appeared to be an illegal fire along the Jordan River Trail near 700 North.

During their investigation, officers contacted two men, one identified as 48-year-old Joseph Valdez, the other as 52-year-old Charles Myers.

Valdez initially provided false identifying information.

During their investigation, officers determined Valdez had an active full extradition warrant.

Officers found Valdez to be in possession of a distributable amount of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and crack cocaine. They also found marijuana dab and cash.

Officers also found Valdez to be in possession of a knife and expandable baton.

Officers booked Valdez into the Salt Lake County Jail on charges of unlawful possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of a dangerous weapon by a restricted person, and failure to disclose identity.

Officers booked Myers into the Salt Lake County Jail on his outstanding warrants.

Charges are only allegations, and every arrested person is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The Salt Lake City Police Department is not the custodian of record for jail booking photos. Utah Code 17-22-30 mostly prohibits the release of jail booking photos. Generally, a jail booking photo can only be released by the custodian of record after a conviction or when law enforcement determines the person is a fugitive or an imminent threat to a person or public safety. In Salt Lake City, the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office is the custodian of record for jail booking photos.

The information contained in this news release is based on a preliminary review of the details available to the Salt Lake City Police Department. As the investigation progresses, information may change.

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