Utah Highway Patrol Was Busy In 2024

According to the 2024 Annual Report released by the Utah Department of Public Safety, the Utah Highway Patrol (UHP) increased its enforcement efforts across the board, resulting in over 306,000 traffic stops aimed at reducing fatal crashes statewide. UHP troopers focused on five key areas of enforcement—DUI, seatbelt usage, wrong-way driving, excessive speed, and reckless driving—with measurable outcomes.

Speeding Violations Lead The Way

In total, troopers made 3,480 DUI arrests and investigated 103 fatal crashes out of 17,754 total crash investigations. Speeding remained a major concern, with 116,337 citations issued. Of particular note, 4,480 drivers were cited for exceeding 100 mph, and 1,745 were charged with reckless driving for speeds over 105 mph. Seatbelt violations led to 13,425 contacts, and 313 wrong-way drivers were intercepted before causing potential harm.

UHP's specialized Motors Unit, also know as the Motorcycle Squad, is composed of 27 officers including one coordinator, and they conducted 12,196 stops in 2024. They issued 13,477 speeding citations and responded to a wide range of violations including DUI (175), distracted driving (885), and seatbelt violations (2,116). The unit also provided 50 dignified traffic escorts for high-profile events.

Interdiction Team Seizes Over 120,000 Fentanyl Pills

The UHP Criminal Interdiction Team seized large quantities of illicit substances, including over 120,000 fentanyl pills, 505 pounds of methamphetamine, and nearly 3,200 pounds of marijuana. Officers also confiscated 46 firearms, more than $922,000 in illicit currency, and located 10 endangered or exploited persons.

In addition, the Department of Public Safety's Aero Bureau completed 947 aerial missions—a 6.8% increase from the previous year. These included 523 law enforcement operations and resulted in 478 arrests. The bureau also played a critical role in rescuing 284 individuals, with 160 of those requiring hoisting from hard-to-reach locations.

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From air rescues to drug seizures and speed enforcement, UHP’s efforts in 2024 reflect a strategic, proactive approach to public safety and law enforcement across Utah’s highways and communities.