Utah Valley University Appoints Acting Police Chief
Eric Beveridge steps into the role of acting police chief at Utah Valley University following the departure of Jeff Long.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in People
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Utah Valley University has named Eric Beveridge as the acting police chief for the Orem campus. This leadership transition follows the resignation of Jeff Long, who previously served as the department's chief.
Why it matters
The change in command marks a shift in oversight for the campus police department, which is responsible for the safety and security of the university community in Orem.
The new acting chief brings 35 years of law enforcement experience to the position, dating back to 1991. The former chief, Jeff Long, holds 30 years of law enforcement service and 25 years in the military reserves.
The players
Eric Beveridge
He is the newly appointed acting police chief for Utah Valley University who has worked in law enforcement since 1991.
Jeff Long
He is the former police chief of Utah Valley University who previously served as deputy chief and has a background in military reserve service.
Utah Valley University
It is a public university located in Orem that maintains its own dedicated police department for campus security.
The details
Eric Beveridge, who previously served as a lieutenant and joined the university police department in 2017, assumes the role immediately. The transition occurs after Jeff Long, who arrived at the university as deputy chief in 2022, resigned from his position.
Timeline
Eric Beveridge began his law enforcement career in 1991.
Eric Beveridge joined the Utah Valley University police department in 2017.
Jeff Long joined Utah Valley University as deputy chief in 2022.
Eric Beveridge became a lieutenant in September 2025.
Jeff Long resigned from his position in October 2026.
Market Landscape
The appointment of a new acting chief signals a shift in the administrative continuity of the university police force. This move follows the leadership structure established by the 2022 hiring of Jeff Long.
Students and faculty at the Orem campus can expect ongoing security operations under the new leadership transition. No changes to campus safety protocols have been announced at this time.
The takeaway
Maintaining consistent campus safety operations is essential for the university environment during leadership changes. Residents and students should monitor official university communications for updates regarding permanent staffing appointments.
Further reading
Learn more about local leadership updates in Orem People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KUTV.
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