North Ogden police chief reinstated after placed on leave for drinking in a DUI training

NORTH OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) — The City of North Ogden reinstated Police Chief Brian Eynon on Tuesday, saying that while he exercised “poor decision-making” during a DUI training, nothing criminal took place.

Chief Eynon was placed on leave in February after the city council received “information” that prompted an investigation. The investigation was conducted by independent law enforcement experts from the Department of Public Safety, according to city officials.

“While the incident underscored the need for improved oversight in training procedures, it was found that Chief Eynon has taken full responsibility for his actions and is committed to implementing necessary reforms,” a press release sent by City Manager Jon Call reads.

The investigation was regarding a DUI training, termed a “wet lab,” where volunteers drink alcohol to reach specific blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels. The officers in the training will then conduct field tests on the volunteers to improve their skills in identifying impairment.

The city said during one such training, Chief Eynon volunteered to become intoxicated. While city officials said he “demonstrated poor decision-making,” there were no crimes committed. They also said no municipal funds were used on the alcohol and no additional policy violations took place.

In addition to the chief volunteering to drink, investigators found that the training lacked the oversight required for this kind of exercise.

“After a careful review, we have determined that while Chief Eynon exhibited a lapse in judgment by volunteering to get intoxicated, his intent was good, and this incident does not define his overall commitment and service to our community,” Call wrote in the release.

Chief Eynon will be required to add revised policies for future training exercises. The city is also going to conduct trainings for all departments “to strengthen oversight and reinforce professional decision-making at all levels.”

“North Ogden leadership is confident that, with these steps, Chief Eynon will continue to serve the community with professionalism and accountability,” Call wrote.

Eynon was hired as chief of the North Ogden Police Department in May of last year. According to his LinkedIn, he brought with him 29 years of experience from various cities throughout his career.