An independent audit has confirmed that morale within the South Salt Lake Police Department has reached what investigators describe as a historic low, raising fresh concerns about leadership, staffing culture and long-term public safety in the city.
The findings were presented Wednesday by investigator Heather White, who was hired to conduct a full review following months of internal tension. White shared her analysis during the city council meeting, emphasizing that officers and department leaders were aligned on one point: morale has plunged to its lowest level in years.
White, a well-known legal investigator, previously worked with the University of Utah (official website) and was brought in to give the city a clearer, unbiased picture of how internal issues are affecting the department.
“There was unanimous agreement between all of the officers and the chief that morale of the police department is at what would be considered a historic low,” White told council members.
Internal Discontent and Leadership Concerns
The city called for the audit after a survey conducted by the Fraternal Order of Police revealed that more than two-thirds of both civilian and sworn staff were dissatisfied with the leadership of Chief Danielle Croyle, who was appointed in 2022 by Mayor Cherie Wood.
White noted that a significant number of employees took issue with how the appointment was handled. Many of the staff most discouraged by current leadership were long-tenured officers compared to newer personnel who expressed more support.
Some long-term employees shared emotional testimony during the meeting. One crime scene officer described distress from the daily demands of the job and the department’s internal climate.
“I go to baby deaths, I go where people have lost their loved ones. Nothing about my job is easy. I see people at the worst possible parts of their lives, and that is easier than coming to work,” the officer said.
A civilian employee with more than two decades of service added, “I am incredibly heartbroken to see the department I have been so proud to be part of for so long in such a shattered place. We are sad and we are exhausted.”
City Leaders Respond to the 72-Page Report
Council members questioned White about the findings while reviewing the 72-page audit. Mayor Wood acknowledged the seriousness of the issues and said the city will develop an action plan in the coming months to address the concerns.
“These findings are not positive, and unfortunately, not unexpected,” Wood said. “The report makes clear the department is experiencing significant strain. I want to make sure everyone understands how seriously we are addressing this issue.”
The audit also indicates that some of the problems began before Chief Croyle’s tenure and continued under her leadership, creating a layered history of workplace challenges.
Residents, officers’ spouses and community advocates also voiced concerns during the meeting, citing mental health pressures on officers and potential public-safety risks if department morale continues to erode.
For broader context on police workplace standards, see the US Department of Justice (official website), which provides national guidelines on officer well-being and agency performance.
A Department Still Committed to Its Mission
Despite the concerns, White emphasized that many officers expressed strong dedication to their work and continued loyalty to one another.
“Everyone from the newest hire to the chief has the best interest of the city in mind,” she said, noting that teamwork remains one of the department’s core strengths.
City leaders now face the challenge of restoring stability and rebuilding confidence while ensuring that community safety is not compromised amid internal strain.
