News Release



For further information please contact:

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

plunkl@mshp.state.mo.us

#: 2005-06-05

Date: June 14, 2005



EMPHASIS: Troop E "Click It or Ticket" Results





Captain George Ridens, Commanding Officer of Troop E, released results of the recent “Click It or Ticket” campaign conducted in Troop E, focusing on Scott and Stoddard counties. The campaign was part of a national effort to promote the use of seat belts and child restraint systems and was conducted May 23 through June 5, 2005.



The Troop E operation resulted in the 464 total arrests, including 212 seat belt violations, 1 child restraint violation, 3 DWI arrests, 1 drug offense, 11 misdemeanor criminal arrests, 3 minor in possession charges, 2 felony arrests, 177 speed violations, and 616 warnings for various offenses.



Captain Ridens added, “This operation was a success in many aspects, but it also demonstrates that more motorists need to be convinced that seat belts are important to their safety. Please buckle up and properly secure your children in the vehicle when you travel.”



Troop E has currently investigated 34 traffic fatalities compared to 51 at the same period in 2004. Statewide, the Patrol is reporting 536 traffic fatalities compared to 489 at the same period last year.



For more information concerning this operation or for matters concerning highway safety, please contact Sergeant Larry W. Plunkett, Jr., Public Information and Education Officer for Troop E at 573-840-9500.