February 1, 2025

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PolicePIO@slc.gov

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SLCPD Officers Recover Suspected Fentanyl, Meth, and Crack Cocaine, 1 Person Arrested along North Temple Street

SALT LAKE CITY — As part of their ongoing effort to address drug activity along North Temple Street, patrol officers with the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) recently conducted an early morning enforcement effort to disrupt alleged drug trafficking.

Officers arrested 59-year-old Darnell Cockle who is accused of being involved in illegal drug distribution.

This investigation started at approximately 7:15 a.m. on January 30, 2025, when officers saw Cockle in an area—800 West North Temple Street—where prior drug-related arrests have been made. Officers conducted a stop after seeing Cockle walking in the roadway illegally.

During their investigation, officers found suspected fentanyl pills, crack cocaine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

Officers also found nearly $300 in cash.

Based on the quantity, packaging, and other factors, officers developed probable cause to charge Cockle with possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute.

Officers booked Cockle into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on charges of being in illegal possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and use or possession of drug paraphernalia, and failure to yield as a pedestrian.

Officers submitted a no-bail request to the court, citing concerns about flight risk and public safety.

A photo of the case and drugs seized during this investigation is being released. Media may use this photo with credit to the Salt Lake City Police Department.

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.

Photo: Evidence, including cash, is shown on a table during the booking process after a felony arrest near 800 West North Temple Street (Salt Lake City Police Department photo – January 30, 2025).

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