In a decision that has stirred the community, the Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office announced that it will not be pursuing criminal charges against the South Jordan Police Department officer who fatally shot Marcelo Josue Gutierrez. The incident in question took place on June 15, 2024, and was reviewed under the Office’s standard protocol for Officer Involved Critical Incidents (OICI). Details released by the District Attorney’s Office highlight the nature of these reviews, which are conducted independently and by legal standards, and in agreement with local law enforcement. The Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office emphasized consistency with the established review process.
The DA’s Office is tasked to impartially examine instances when officers use deadly force in the line of duty. This particular case has concluded without charges, prompting a mix of relief and discontent among different factions within the Salt Lake community. Supporters of law enforcement have expressed their approval, trusting that the decision not to file charges comes after a thorough and objective assessment of the situation. Critics, however, argue this is yet another example of systemic issues within the review process and the broader relationship between police and the prosecution. They continue to raise questions about the transparency and fairness of such investigations.
In the aftermath of the announcement, the South Jordan Police Department has not released additional information regarding the case, keeping to their standard policy pending the conclusion of internal reviews. The SJPD has had to navigate the fine line between maintaining public trust and upholding the rights of the officers involved in such critical incidents…