SALT LAKE CITY – A Utah father charged with torturing and abusing his children while on a hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon will not be released from jail for now.

Micah Smith, 31, of South Jordan appeared virtually in 3rd District Court Tuesday morning where a protective order was issued, preventing him from contacting his children in any way.

Smith asked Commissioner Todd Olsen if he could be released from jail, but prosecutor Clifford Ross said that was a “hard no,” arguing the defendant posed a “significant safety risk.” Olsen agreed.

“There is substantial evidence to support the charges in this case, Mr. Smith, and I do find by a clear and convincing standard that you would be a danger to the alleged victims if you were released today,” Olsen said.

The commissioner added that things c

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