Data center protester disputes deputy's account of arrest
A protester was arrested and two others were cited during an October 20 Utah County Commission meeting where officials considered data center zoning. The protester disputes the sheriff’s account of the confrontation and is calling for body-camera footage and an independent investigation, while activists continue to demand a moratorium on data centers.
A confrontation between protesters and Utah County Sheriff’s Office deputies followed an October 20 meeting at which the Utah County Planning Commission voted on an ordinance concerning data center zoning. Aspen Azalea was arrested and two other attendees were cited after deputies removed them from the meeting. The sheriff’s office said Azalea struck a deputy and resisted arrest; Azalea disputes that account, denies intentionally kicking or striking the deputy, and says excessive force was used when she was taken to the ground.
Azalea said she suffered a concussion and continuing pain and wants body-camera footage released and an independent investigation conducted. The sheriff’s office said the incident is under supervisory review, while a coalition of Utah County and Utah organizations sent a letter demanding transparency and accountability. Protesters were seeking a moratorium on data centers, citing concerns about the state’s capacity, wildlife and the Great Salt Lake.