Salt Lake City Police Department, Utah
End of Watch Tuesday, October 5, 1909
Reflections for Special Officer Charles C. Riley
Officer Riley was known as an energetic and efficient officer. He loved excitement and was described as someone who "did not know what terror was." His fellow officers remembered him as someone who loved to court danger and held the safety of others in the highest regard.
His murder started an important public discourse in Utah regarding officer safety. Specifically, around a law that prohibited officers from searching suspects before arriving at the police station. An editorial in the Deseret News called for immediate changes to this "ill-advised law." The circumstances surrounding Officer Riley's murder underscored the vulnerability of officers who had to escort potentially armed and desperate criminals without the means to disarm them first.
The murder led to calls to give peace officers "all possible latitude" when dealing with "desperate characters". The argument was that prioritizing officer safety over rigid rules was necessary to prevent similar tragedies. The Police Chief was specifically urged to create new regulations to minimize the risks officers faced when handling violent suspects.
Boxer Kid Frazzles and the Manhattan Athletic Club held a fundraiser for Officer Riley's family. The proceeds from the fight, along with contributions from the Salt Lake City Police Department, helped raise close to four figures for the officer's dependents.
Officer MICHAEL JONES
Utah Department of Corrections
September 21, 2025
No passage of time will ever erase your memory, service and sacrifice. Rest in peace always.
Detective Cpl/3 Steven Rizzo
Delaware State Police (Retired)
October 5, 2020
Officer Riley,
On today, the 110th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Salt Lake City.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
United States Border Patrol
October 5, 2019
To fully appreciate the heroes of the present, we must recognize our heroes of the past. Your heroism and service is honored today, the 104th anniversary year of your death. I am privileged to be among the first to leave a tribute to you. Your memory lives and you continue to inspire. Thank you for your service. My cherished son Larry Lasater was a fellow police officer who was murdered in the line of duty on April 24, 2005 while serving as a Pittsburg, CA police officer.
Time never diminishes respect. Your memory will always be honored and revered. Rest In Peace.
Phyllis Lasater Loya
mom of fallen Pittsburg (CA) officer Larry Lasater
September 16, 2013
Officer Riley,
On today, the 102nd anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for the citizens of Salt Lake City.
R.I.P.
USBP
Anonymous
U.S. Border Patrol
October 5, 2011
You are remembered today and thank you Sir for your service.
pat Van Den Berghe
October 14, 2007