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Highway patrol proposes two drug‑interdiction crews, K‑9 teams and specialized equipment tied to HB 87
Summary
DPS asked for funding to add two drug‑trafficking interdiction crews (10 K‑9 teams total), specialized detection equipment and ongoing positions, citing increased fentanyl trafficking into Utah; request ties to HB 87 criminal amendments.
The Utah Highway Patrol described a request on Jan. 31 to create two additional interdiction crews focused on drug trafficking corridors and fentanyl shipments, a proposal the department tied to HB 87 (fentanyl/drug trafficking amendments).
The package would fund two crews composed of a sergeant and four troopers per crew, each trooper paired with a K‑9; presenters described the teams as ten K‑9 teams total. The department asked for one‑time equipment funding (including X‑ray equipment, density meters and TruNarc analyzers to identify fentanyl without field contact) and ongoing staffing dollars to sustain the teams.
Why it matters: presenters said seizures on Utah interstates have shifted in recent years from shipments merely transiting the state to loads destined for Utah, particularly Salt Lake City. The presenters said 100% of the fentanyl seizures on interstates last year were destined to the state; they cited large quantities of pills and pounds of raw fentanyl powder. Department witnesses argued the additional interdiction crews would improve the likelihood of disruption and deterrence on I‑15, I‑70, I‑80 and I‑84 corridors.
Requested amounts (provided in testimony): a one‑time equipment request of about $2,900,000 to purchase specialized detection tools and vehicle/equipment support, and an ongoing personnel request of approximately $1,700,000 to fund the new positions.
The department also highlighted the ability to use intelligence, cell‑phone exploitation and cooperation with local narcotics task forces to move investigations from road‑side seizures to mid‑level and organized trafficking targets. Presenters said the expanded interdiction capability would dovetail with state investigators and local task forces.
Ending: presenters framed the funding as a deterrent measure that increases the “likelihood of getting caught.” The subcommittee did not take a final vote on the proposal at the Jan. 31 hearing.
