News Release



For further information please contact: Sgt. Larry W. Plunkett, Jr

(573) 840-9500 plunkl@mshp.state.mo.us

#: 2004-07-01

Date: July 12, 2004



EMPHASIS: Special Enforcement Projects Completed in Troop E



Captain George Ridens, Commanding Officer of Troop E of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announced today that two primary enforcement projects have recently been completed. Those projects include the MCSAP (Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program) in Cape Girardeau and Scott counties and a DWI Sobriety Checkpoint in Stoddard and Butler counties.



The MCSAP project, focusing on violations contributing to motor vehicle accidents and safe commercial vehicle operation, resulted in a total of 132 arrests and 291 warnings on June 11, 2004. Those arrests included one DWI, one misdemeanor drug arrest, three misdemeanor criminal arrests, 56 commercial vehicle violation arrests, and a host of other violations. The operation was a cooperative effort involving the Patrol’s commercial vehicle officers and troopers for an intense one-day operation.



The Patrol also conducted a series of sobriety checkpoints the evening of July 9, 2004 at locations in Stoddard and Butler counties. The operation resulted in two DWI arrests, two misdemeanor drug arrests, 73 warnings and a total of 10 arrests. The sites selected for the chekcpoints were based on areas identified for frequent alcohol-related accidents and DWI arrests.



Captain Ridens commented on the projects, “These types of operations are extremely important in promoting safer driving amoung commercial vehicle drivers and our everyday drivers in Southeast Missouri. Far too many accidents happen when drivers become too aggressive, inattentive, or are impaired by drugs and alcohol. If we can make our efforts more noticeable and intensified, hopefully, we can prevent more injuries and deaths. The public should be aware that the Patrol’s efforts will continue throughout the summer months and will be at various locations throughout Southeast Missouri.”



Troop E has investigated 58 traffic related fatalities this year. Anyone requiring further information concerning this subject should contact Sergeant Larry W. Plunkett, Jr., Public Information and Education Officer, at 573-840-9500.