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.
