By Aidan Mortensen | KOAL News | Photos courtesy of the Emery County Sheriff’s Office

A nonstop stretch of action came for the Emery County Sheriff’s Office from March 4 to March 8, with officers aiding in a search-and-rescue operation, playing a key role in an archaeological discovery, and continuing its fight against drug trafficking.

Search and Rescue incident in the Slipper Arch area

Starting on March 4, the Emery County Search and Rescue team was dispatched to the Slipper Arch area. Upon arrival, they found a climber who had been rappelling in the area but had become stuck during his descent. The partner the climber was with was unable to assist due to a leg injury.

Working quickly, the SAR team rescued the trapped climber and the injured companion.

Archaeological remains discovered, given proper burial

During a construction project on private property in north Emery County, workers unearthed human remains. ECSO was called to investigate the scene. After an initial investigation, the office contacted the Utah State Archaeology Department.

“Two PhD archaeologists confirmed the remains are Native American (Fremont Culture), dating back between 700 and 2,000 years,” reads a statement from Emery County Sheriff Tyson Huntington.

Following the archaeological assessment, the archaeologists are working with Native American Tribes to ensure proper reburial of the remains.

103 pounds of marijuana seized in joint operation

The war on drugs, especially along the I-70 corridor, received a win on March 8 when Emery County Deputy Josh Opp, alongside BLM Ranger Nic Cooley and Grand County Sheriff Jamison Wiggins, seized 103 pounds of marijuana during a vehicle search.

This marks another win for the ongoing partnership between the Grand County Sheriff’s Office and the ECSO. In January, the two offices coordinated for a bust that captured 26.8 pounds of methamphetamine.

Closing the statement, Huntington encouraged vigilance for citizens across the county,” Stay vigilant. If anything feels ‘off’ or suspicious, please contact the Sheriff’s Office immediately.”