Former Salt Lake County District Attorney David Yocom Passes Away at 85

Early Life and Career

Former Salt Lake County District Attorney David Yocom, who spent four decades prosecuting some of Utah’s most high-profile cases, has sadly passed away at the age of 85. His exact cause of death has not been released, but according to his obituary, he passed away peacefully in his home.

Yocom graduated from Granite High School in 1956 and went on to earn his law degree from the University of Utah in 1965. He began his career as a prosecutor for the Salt County Attorney’s Office in 1969 and was later elected as Salt Lake County attorney in 1986.

Prosecuting High-Profile Cases

Throughout his career, Yocom was involved in some of the most significant cases in Utah’s history. He prosecuted notorious criminals such as Ted Bundy and Ervil LeBaron and even served as a defense attorney for white supremacist Joseph Paul Franklin. In his role as district attorney, he oversaw the prosecutions of Addam Swapp, Mark Hofmann, Richard Worthington, and Brian David Mitchell.

The district attorney’s office released a statement, saying, “Yocom loved being the district attorney and led by example through his passion about the law, victim rights, the rights of the accused, and those moving through the legal system.”

A Legacy of Leadership

District Attorney Sim Gill, who had the privilege of working alongside Yocom, spoke highly of him, saying, “David not only inspired me as a young prosecutor but served as an example and mentor for me and hundreds of Salt Lake County deputy district attorneys over his long tenure in office. He made a positive difference in this community and never shied away from tough cases.”

Yocom retired in 2006 but continued to be passionate about public service and victim advocacy. While he may have appeared gruff on the outside, those close to him knew he had a dry sense of humor and cared deeply for the public servants under his administration.

A Life Beyond the Courtroom

Outside of his legal career, Yocom enjoyed spending time boating on Flaming Gorge or Lake Powell. After retiring, he and his wife Linda moved to Sunriver, St. George, where he reconnected with old friends and colleagues. He loved golfing, reminiscing, and even achieved a hole-in-one once. Yocom cherished the time he spent traveling with his family and friends, watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow up.

Yocom is survived by his wife of 52 years, Linda, four sons, eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made to the Children’s Justice Center of Salt Lake County or for a tree to be planted in his memory.

David Yocom’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career in the legal profession. His dedication to justice and his impact on the community will be remembered for years to come.

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