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SALT LAKE CITY — A Salt Lake police officer was arrested over the weekend and accused of driving under the influence after investigators say he got into a fight with another driver, then pinned the driver's legs with his truck.
Officer Thomas Edward Caygle, 37, was booked into the Weber County Jail for investigation of DUI and negligently operating a vehicle resulting in injury.
The incident occurred about 5:50 p.m. Friday when Caygle "caused a minor accident" while driving his truck, according to a police booking affidavit.
Both drivers pulled over to the side of the road. "Thomas and the other driver began to argue, at which point witnesses say Thomas got into his truck, put the truck in drive and drove into the rear of the vehicle, pinning the other driver's legs between his truck and the other vehicle," the affidavit states. "Thomas would not reverse to release the person pinned between the cars."
The other driver was eventually transported to a hospital, according to Riverdale police, who were called to the scene to assist Ogden police due to an unspecified "conflict of interest." The arrest report does not indicate the extent of the driver's injuries.
Witnesses said they could smell alcohol on Caygle's breath and noticed he had slurred speech and difficulty balancing, the affidavit alleges. Police say Caygle "admitted to consuming alcohol prior to the accident" and failed three different field sobriety tests.
In a prepared statement released Monday, the Salt Lake City Police Department emphasized that Caygle was off-duty at the time and was driving a personal vehicle.
But the statement went on to say that Caygle has been placed on administrative leave and that officers are held to a higher standard, even when off-duty.
"Our community expects the very best of its police officers at all times, including when off-duty and on personal time. We strive to exceed those expectations every day," Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown said in the statement.
"In reviewing the information and materials I've received so far, I am concerned and disappointed by this incident, which does not align with our core values and expectations. Following the conclusion of our internal investigation, any violation of department policy will result in prompt and full accountability."
