News Release



For further information please contact:

Sgt. Larry W. Plunkett, Jr (573) 840-9500

Larry.Plunkett@mshp.dps.missouri.gov

#: 2004-12-02

Date: December 20, 2004



EMPHASIS: Troop E totals for Operation Lifesaver





Captain George Ridens, Commanding Officer of Troop E, Poplar Bluff, announced traffic and crash totals for Troop E during the 2004 IACP Lifesaver weekend, conducted Friday, December 17 through midnight Sunday, December 19, 2004.



During the operation, troopers reported 12 traffic crashes on designated highways (US 60, US 61, US 67, US 412, MO 25, and MO 164) and zero fatalities. Troop E troopers also made 26 arrests for DWI, issued 186 speed summonses, 285 speed related warnings, 130 seat belt violations, 13 child restraint violations, and assisted 100 motorists over the weekend.



Captain Ridens added, “This is obviously a busy time of year for everyone, but safe travel along our highways is still important. We encourage everyone to watch their local weather reports, allow plenty of time to travel safely, ensure everyone in the vehicle is wearing their seat belt, and never drink and drive.”



The commander also advised additional operations will be conducted over the Christmas holiday, beginning 6 p.m. on Thursday, December 23 through midnight on Sunday, December 26, and a New Year’s traffic counting period from 6 p.m. Thursday, December 30 through January 3, 2005.

Troop E has currently investigated 108 traffic fatalities in 2004, compared to 121 at the same period last year. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has investigated 1072 fatalities statewide, compared to 1206 at the same period in 2003.