SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, May 31, 2020 (Gephardt Daily) — Gov. Gary R. Herbert released a statement after assessing damage to the Salt Lake downtown area and to the State Capitol building Sunday.
The statement reads: Like many Utahns, I was deeply saddened by last night’s protests. The days since George Floyd’s death have been painful for many in our nation. Our hearts ache for his family and for all who knew him — and we join the countless mourners across the country who were grieved and shocked to witness his unnecessary death.
Peaceful protest will always have a place in our community, but the events of yesterday were beyond the pale. I was greatly troubled to see the vandalism carried out on the Capitol building, public spaces and private property in our downtown area. I am grateful for the support of law enforcement officers from across the state, and for the support of our National Guard, in restoring law and order to our capital city. These men and women exercised patience and professionalism in de-escalating the situation last night.
Today, as I visited the State Capitol, I saw hope and a spirit of cooperation return, as I visited with those who came to clean the building and its grounds. I believe that Utahns are empathetic. I believe that we care about each other. I believe that we will emerge from this difficult week more united and increasingly invested in promoting a just world for all.
I am encouraged to see calm return to Salt Lake City and expect all to comply with the curfew put in place by Mayor Erin Mendenhall.
in accordance with an order from Mendenhall, Salt Lake City remains under curfew until 6 a.m. on Monday. Law enforcement officers are working to identify and charge individuals who committed crimes in the course of last night’s protests.
I hope they fine the people who did the damages there is no reason to destroy public property.
I appreciated Mayor Mendenhall’s words this morning in a press conference and was touched when she shared how many citizens had shown up at our Capitol Building during the night to clean up the mayhem with garbage bags. What a display of commitment to move forward and continue to make Our community a safe place to be. Thanks to Gov Herbert’s leadership and the many police officers who sacrificed much for our well being. Utah is a great state!