News Release



For further information please contact:

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

Larry.Plunkett@mshp.dps.mo.us

#:2005-05-01

Date: May 2, 2005



EMPHASIS: Troop E Sobriety Checkpoints





Captain George Ridens, Commanding Officer of Troop E, announced the enforcement totals for sobriety checkpoint operations conducted in Butler County on April 29 and 30, 2005. The operations were conducted over a six-hour period and resulted in one DWI arrest and several miscellaneous violations and warnings.

The operations were conducted by a group of troopers who were shifted to various locations throughout the county identified for frequent alcohol related arrests and traffic crashes. Although rainy weather affected the effectiveness of the operations, one subject was arrested for operating a motor vehicle while in an intoxicated condition and another for zero tolerance. Troopers issued a total of 20 summonses and 84 warnings during the two operations and made misdemeanor arrests for marijuana possession.



Captain Ridens added, “Although we’re pleased that almost everyone we encountered was sober and safe to drive, we can’t let our protective attitude disappear. We’ll continue our DWI enforcement efforts until drunks stop injuring and killing people in Southeast Missouri.”



Troop E has currently investigated 23 traffic fatalities in 2005, compared to 32 at the same period in 2004. Statewide totals indicate a slight increase over last year, with 386 traffic fatalities in 2005 compared to 333 at the same period in 2004.

For more information concerning traffic safety, contact Sergeant Larry W. Plunkett, Jr., Public Information and Education Officer for Troop E at 573-840-9500.