Personal Freedom

Transparency Report Shows Force Used in 2016


Utah is the only state with a law requiring police transparency regarding “forcible entry” (no-knock or knock-and-announce) warrants and the use of SWAT teams. This year’s report marks the third since the law was enacted; see here and here for data from the first two years. This year’s report—showing data for 2016—has just been released.

Here is a summary of the data that was provided:

  • There were 444 total “reportable incidents” in 2016—a decline of 3% compared to 2015 and 21% compared to 2014.
  • Of these, 222 incidents involved forcibly entering the residence or building.
  • 70% of forcible entries pertained to offenses regarding drugs or alcohol.
  • Warrants were obtained in 89% of all reported incidents (compared to 97% last year).
  • Weapons (including non-firearms) were brandished by suspects in 5% of reported incidents. Firearms were used by suspects on one occasion.
  • Four officers were injured.
  • One civilian was injured and one was killed.
  • One animal was injured.

Here is a breakdown of the reasons leading to these incidents:

This graph shows the breakdown of what kinds of warrants were issued:

The entire report can be read here.