For further information please contact: Captain J. T. "Tim" Hull
(573) 526-6115
Q03079
April 2, 2007

EMPHASIS: New Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Program For The Patrol


Colonel James F. Keathley, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol announced a new commercial vehicle enforcement program at a press conference held at the Patrol’s General Headquarters on Monday, April 2, 2007 in Jefferson City, and will do so again at a second news conference in Springfield on Tuesday, April 3, 2007.

On July 1, 2006, 20 full-time positions were transferred by legislative action from vacancies within the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division and reassigned as sworn troopers. This reassignment of personnel presented the Patrol with an excellent opportunity to further engage in homeland security activities, expand our presence on Missouri roadways, and improve the Patrol’s commercial vehicle enforcement capabilities. This is an example of the Patrol working closely with our legislature and Governor Blunt to improve the safety on our roadways.

To take advantage of this opportunity, Colonel Keathley approved the creation of the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Troopers Pilot Program (CVET) on December 1, 2006. On March 12, 2007, the troopers assigned to the CVET program began training at the Patrol’s Training Academy. This program consists of eight troopers divided into two teams. Each team includes a sergeant, corporal, and two troopers. One CVET pilot unit will be working in the Troop D, Springfield area to include the Interstate 44 corridor; and the other in the Troop F, Jefferson City area, which will include the Interstate 70 corridor. “The pilot program will allow us to establish consistency in the operation and will provide an opportunity to address challenges prior to adding additional teams,” stated Colonel Keathley. Tentative plans include an additional 12 members assigned to CVET units this fall.

The commercial vehicle enforcement troopers retain the normal duties of a road trooper, however, their primary duties will include enforcement of commercial vehicle and special mobile equipment hazardous moving and safety laws, administrative orders, rules, and regulations. These officers will assist the Major Crash Investigation Units in investigating traffic crashes involving commercial vehicles, school buses, and passenger-carrying motor coaches. The CVETs will be trained in inspecting radioactive shipments using specialized equipment, and will also receive training related to homeland security.

Troopers assigned as CVETs will be distinguished from other troopers by uniform and vehicle. These teams will be assigned fully marked, two-wheel drive, Chevrolet Tahoe police SUVs. The CVETs’ daily uniforms will be blue military style field uniforms displaying Patrol shoulder patches.

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