The University of Utah’s Department of Public Safety named Jack Carruth the new deputy chief safety officer on Feb. 16 following the retirement of Scott Carver.
“Jack Carruth brings a depth of experience that will be a tremendous asset to our department and the university community,” Keith Squires, chief safety officer at the University of Utah said. “His focus on mentorship and building trust with campus constituents and community partners aligns directly with our mission, and I’m confident he will help strengthen and advance our safety efforts across campus.”
With more than three decades in law enforcement, Carruth steps into the role with a focus on trust, transparency and proactive safety strategies for the U.
“My approach has always centered on principled leadership, accountability and building strong relationships with the community,” he said.
Carruth feels his background will help the U by bringing a wide-ranging perspective on both leadership and modern policing practices.
“I navigated my previous agency through change, growth and complex challenges,” he said. “I understand how to build systems that are both responsive and proactive.”
He believes that will translate into strengthening partnerships, improving accountability and tailoring safety strategies to fit the unique needs of the U’s campus environment.
“Safety on a university campus goes beyond crime reduction,” he said. “It’s about creating an environment where students, faculty and staff feel secure, supported and able to thrive.”
That includes not only physical safety, but also emotional well-being and a sense of belonging, he added.
Looking ahead, he plans to build on existing programs by improving coordination and expanding proactive efforts already underway. Those include community-oriented policing, mental health response partnerships and enhanced communication tools.
“My goal is to build on the strong foundation already in place by enhancing coordination, expanding proactive safety programs and strengthening trust across campus,” he said.
Like many universities, the U faces evolving challenges, particularly related to mental health and changing expectations around public safety.
“Addressing these challenges requires a balanced approach,” he said, pointing to the need for training, stronger partnerships and alternative response options when appropriate.
Central to his strategy is building trust with students, faculty and staff—something he said requires regular effort.
“Trust is built through consistency, transparency and genuine engagement,” he said. “It requires showing up, listening and following through.”
Communication will play a key role in that effort. He emphasized the importance of timely and accurate information, as well as creating opportunities for feedback from students, faculty and staff.
He plans to continue expanding outreach and safety education programs while working closely with student support services to address well-being more holistically.
Carruth brings 31 years of experience to the deputy chief safety officer role, including a decade as a police chief. Over the course of his career, he’s worked across patrol, investigations, administration and executive leadership. Carruth joined the University of Utah Department of Public Safety in July 2025, working in Health Security.
Before joining the U, he also contributed to regional public safety efforts by serving on the Salt Lake County Criminal Justice Advisory Council from 2017 to 2024 and on the executive board of the Utah FBI National Academy Associates. In 2018, he was named Chief of the Year by the Fraternal Order of Police.
His return to public safety work at the U after a short retirement from law enforcement was driven by a desire to mentor younger officers and help develop future leaders and leave the department stronger and self-sustaining.
“There are a lot of talented, dedicated people here,” Carruth said. “The campus is in good hands, and I want to help support that future. I want to be able to walk out the door and be proud to say I was a part of it.”