Utah’s Delta Center to Help Individuals Clear Criminal Records
For Mysti Lopez, being a mother was something she always wanted but could never fully experience. As a convicted felon since the age of 18, she found herself excluded from participating in her children’s school activities, unable to be a regular part of their lives.
Her criminal record stood as a barrier, limiting her chances to truly move forward. That was until Lopez had her felony expunged, which allowed her to shed the past and begin anew.
“Getting my record cleared gave me a second chance,” Lopez said. “It was the biggest obstacle to moving forward. Now, I encourage others to do the same because it really opens up new opportunities for the life you want.”
A Step Toward Change: The Expungement Summit
On Wednesday, January 22, anyone interested in clearing their criminal records or learning about the process can take part in the Smith Entertainment Group (SEG) Expungement Summit at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City.
This event, hosted by Ryan Smith, owner of the Utah Jazz and other businesses, aims to help individuals determine if their criminal record can be expunged and guide them through the legal process.
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Event Details
- Where: Delta Center, 301 S. Temple, Salt Lake City
- When: Wednesday, January 22, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Who: Open to anyone seeking information on expunging criminal records or interested in starting the expungement process.
- Parking: Free parking is available at the North Temple Parking Lot (112 N. 400 West, Salt Lake City), directly north of the Delta Center.
- Perks: Attendees will receive two tickets to a future Utah Jazz or Utah Hockey Club game.
Those who wish to pre-register for the event can do so at rasa-legal.com/events.
The Need for Expungement
According to local criminal justice advocates, 1 in 4 adults in Utah have some form of criminal record. This statistic becomes even more concerning when considering that 50% of Utah public school students have at least one parent with a criminal history.
This presents significant challenges for many Utahns, who struggle to access housing, secure stable employment, or live the life they deserve due to past convictions. Through efforts by Clean Slate Utah and Rasa Legal, expunging misdemeanors and certain nonviolent felonies has become a focal point to help restore these individuals’ chances at a better future.
Advocates also emphasize that expungement offers 25% of Utahns an opportunity to truly start fresh.
A Shared Vision for Change
The summit’s connection with Ryan Smith was sparked after an event held two years ago, where Smith became deeply moved by the work being done. He expressed a strong desire to host another event this year at the Delta Center to help more individuals in Utah.
“Ryan has been incredible to work with,” said Destiny Garcia, Executive Director of Clean Slate Utah. “He was really inspired and wanted to continue making an impact, so this event is a reflection of that vision.”
The event is a collaboration between Smith’s SEG, the NBA’s Social Justice League, Rasa Legal, and Clean Slate Utah. It will also feature 70 volunteer lawyers offering pro bono services to help attendees begin their expungement process at no cost.
Typically, the expungement process can cost up to $1,000 or more, but thanks to the pro bono lawyers, individuals can bypass this financial barrier.
Additionally, a community fair will be hosted at the summit, providing resources on housing, job opportunities, and other services that can support individuals as they embark on their fresh start.
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Success from Past Events
In 2023, over 400 attendees took part in the summit, and more than 100 individuals were able to expunge their criminal records. This year, the event is expected to see even more success, with more than 600 people already registered.
However, it is highly recommended that participants pre-register, as walk-ins may only be accommodated if space and time allow.
A Chance at Redemption
While some may question the fairness of expunging criminal records, advocates point out that the Clean Slate Law specifically addresses the removal of lower-level crimes. They argue that everyone has made mistakes, but the difference is that not everyone’s past is public.
“We all make mistakes… it’s easy to judge, but the criminal justice system punishes you for years,” said Noella Sudbury, CEO and founder of an agency that helps Utahns clear their records. “Expungement gives people the chance to move forward, start fresh, and build the life they deserve.”
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