For further information please contact: Trooper Clark D. Parrott
(573) 840-9500
E0411118
April 11, 2011

EMPHASIS: Results Of Troop E Driving While Intoxicated Saturation

Captain George E. Ridens, commanding officer of Troop E, announces the results of a driving while intoxicated saturation conducted in Troop E, which began on April 9, 2011 at 7 p.m. and ended on April 11, 2011 at 3 a.m. During the operation, troopers were assigned to conduct saturations at locations known to have a high number of alcohol-related arrests and traffic crashes.

Troopers made 45 arrests during the shift: six driving while intoxicated arrests, one felony drug arrest, ten misdemeanor drug arrests and three warrant arrests. Traffic citations issued by officers included nine for seatbelt violations, four for speed, five for driving while revoked or suspended and one uninsured motorist. Six arrests were for unspecified non-moving violations. Troopers issued 53 warnings for various other traffic violations during the operation. Troopers worked 3 traffic crashes during the operation, including two with impaired drivers.

Captain Ridens stated, "The impaired driver continues to be a major contributor to serious traffic crashes in Southeast Missouri. Driving while intoxicated saturations are a part of the Patrol's effort to remove intoxicated drivers from Missouri roadways. The troopers in the Troop E area will continue to pursue this goal."

The Missouri State Highway Patrol urges all citizens to report any vehicle they observe operating in a careless manner. The public can contact the Highway Patrol toll-free at 1-800-525-5555 or on their cellular phone at *55.

(###)