SALT LAKE CITY — Thomas Caygle, a former officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department, is standing trial for aggravated assault after a December 2022 crash that occurred while he was off duty in Weber County.
Prosecutors say he was under the influence when he crashed into the victim twice. The first crash was minor. The second crash left the victim with his body pinned between two vehicles.
“What began as a routine fender bender turned into something else,” explained Deputy District Attorney Sean Brian.
Prosecutors say Caygle intentionally crushed the man’s leg after learning 911 was called.
SLCPD fired Caygle after an internal investigation. While that case centered around whether Caygle violated department policy, a criminal trial would only result in a conviction if the state proves (beyond a reasonable doubt) that Caygle broke the law by intentionally injuring the victim.
Caygle said the incident began when his foot slipped off the pedal at an intersection, causing him to accidentally rear-end the victim.