SALT LAKE CITY, UT – The Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) has released body-worn camera footage from a 2024 death investigation, revealing unprofessional conduct by some officers at the scene.
The incident occurred on August 8, 2024, when police responded to reports of a deceased man inside a tent near Brooklyn Street and Washington Avenue. Upon arrival, officers confirmed that 47-year-old Jason Lloyd had died. Initial findings suggested the death was unattended and not suspicious, with a later autopsy ruling it accidental.
Allegations of Misconduct
Concerns about police conduct surfaced following the incident, prompting a criminal investigation by the Utah Attorney General’s Office. The office concluded that no criminal charges were warranted. However, an internal review by SLCPD found troubling actions by multiple officers.
One key issue involved a medical examiner’s contractor handing a utility knife to an officer-in-training (OIT) and instructing him to pop blisters on the deceased’s arm. SLCPD policy states that once a death is reported, the Office of the Medical Examiner (OME) assumes jurisdiction over the body, with only authorized individuals permitted to move or examine it under specific conditions.
Internal Investigation Findings
The SLCPD internal affairs division uncovered the following key details:
- Officers secured the scene, interviewed a 911 caller, and attempted to identify security footage.
- A medical examiner arrived, followed by three contractors from Care Center of Utah Mortuary Services, responsible for transporting Lloyd’s body.
- One contractor requested permission from the OME investigator to conduct “controlled popping” of Lloyd’s blisters, which was granted.
- The SLCPD officer-in-training approached to assist, under direction from two senior officers.
- A contractor handed him a utility knife and instructed him to pop multiple blisters on Lloyd’s right arm.
- No OME staff, SLCPD personnel, or other contractors objected at the time.
The investigation also revealed that the officer’s Field Training Officer (FTO) later told him to omit any mention of the blister popping from his official report. This instruction was later confirmed as true.
Department Response
Following the findings, SLCPD Chief Mike Brown condemned the conduct displayed at the scene.
“Some of the behavior in this case was unprofessional, discourteous, disrespectful, and offensive. It does not reflect the integrity and professionalism expected of our department. I extend my deepest condolences to Mr. Lloyd’s family. Every individual deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and we must ensure that our standards are upheld in every case.”
Chief Brown also praised employees who reported concerns about the conduct of officers involved.
Disciplinary Actions
As a result of the investigation:
- Seven officers were placed on paid administrative leave.
- Six have returned to duty, while one Field Training Officer resigned before any formal employment action.
- Three employees were cleared of any wrongdoing.
- Four officers were found to have violated SLCPD or city policies, resulting in disciplinary measures ranging from written warnings to unpaid suspensions.
The specific policy violations included Standards of Conduct, Report Preparation, Field Training Procedures, and Death Investigation Protocols.
Although no criminal charges were filed, the department has stated that steps will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Bodycam Footage
SLCPD has made the body-worn camera footage available for public viewing. Viewer discretion is advised .
