MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop E Headquarters - 4947 Highway 67 North - Poplar Bluff, MO 63901


News Release

For further information please contact: Sergeant Dale H. Moreland
(573) 840-9500
E090935
September 10, 2009

EMPHASIS: 2009 Labor Day Crash And C.A.R.E. Totals For Troop E


Captain George E. Ridens, commanding officer of Troop E, announces the Labor Day traffic crash and enforcement totals for Troop E. This year’s counting period began at 6:00 p.m., Friday September 4, 2009, and ended at 11:59 p.m., Sunday September 7, 2009. During the holiday counting period, Troop E officers participated in Operation (C.A.R.E.), which is a multi-state “Combined Accident Reduction Effort”.
During the extended Labor Day counting period troopers assigned to Troop E investigated 35 crashes, resulting in 27 injuries and one fatality, and made 23 arrests for driving while intoxicated. During the C.A.R.E. counting period, which began at 12:01 a.m., Friday, September 4, 2009, and ended at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 7, 2009, Troop E officers investigated 38 crashes, 7 of which was alcohol related. During that same period, Troop E officers issued 395 citations for speed and 110 summonses were issued for not wearing a seat belt. Eleven motorists were cited for failing to have their child properly restrained in a child restraint system. Troop E officers assisted 137 motorists.
Captain Ridens, stated, “We will continue to do our job in making our highway as safe as possible for all travelers. Please remember we need your continued help--pay attention, obey traffic laws, make sure everyone is buckled up, and if you drink, don’t drive.”