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For further information please contact:

Capt. Christian T. Ricks

(573) 526-6115



May 26, 2006

EMPHASIS: St. Louis AutoDealers Association Presents “Skid Monster” To Patrol



The St. Louis AutoDealers Association has presented a “Skid Monster” to the Missouri State Highway Patrol for use during training. According to Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Skid Monster will be used at the emergency vehicle operation course during recruit training and other police schools held at the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy.



“We felt the Patrol might be able to use the Skid Monster,” said Mr. David Crafton, executive vice president of the St. Louis AutoDealers Association, “so, we called. We hope it provides valuable experience during training.”



The Skid Monster is a set of castering wheels, capable of rotating 360 degrees. This device is attached to the rear wheels of a vehicle after the two rear tires are removed. The purpose of this device is to allow the driver to experience a temporary loss of control similar to what could happen when driving on ice or when a vehicle hydroplanes. The driver can then practice overcoming the loss with steering techniques.



“I appreciate the St. Louis AutoDealers Association and their concern for the safety of our officers. Emergency vehicle operation training is part of our recruit training program, and also offered to other peace officers in Missouri through our Law Enforcement Academy. The Skid Monster will be a positive addition to our current training program,” said Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. “On behalf of the Patrol, I want to sincerely thank Mr. Crafton and his organization for their support.”





Note: A photo of the Skid Monster is available to members of the media upon request.