NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact:

Capt. J. Tim Hull

(573) 526-6115



Q110611

November 27, 2006

EMPHASIS: Highway Patrol Releases October 2006 Drug Interdiction Totals



Colonel James F. Keathley, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, would like to publicly acknowledge the state troopers working Missouri’s roadways. Traffic enforcement--including the investigation of traffic crashes and responding to calls from the public--has been the Patrol’s primary mission for 75 years. Troopers are vigilant in fulfilling this mission and in detecting criminal activity occurring on our highways.



In addition to the 16,892 speed arrests and warnings, 632 driving while intoxicated arrests, 105 alcohol related felony arrests, 3434 traffic crashes investigated, and 12,672 calls for service answered, state troopers seized over 260 pounds of marijuana, 268 pounds of cocaine, 17.5 pounds of heroin, over $53,000 cash, and made 26 arrests for transporting drugs in Missouri in October 2006.



All of the drugs and money seized resulted from troopers applying their training and skills during “routine” traffic violation stops. The largest seizure involved a commercial vehicle traveling on Interstate 44 in Greene County. The truck was hauling over 250 pounds of cocaine. Troopers in Lafayette, Jasper, Franklin, Pemiscot, Daviess, Greene, Cass, and New Madrid counties also made significant drug and cash seizures.



Missouri’s state troopers know that helping to make our highways safe for the motoring public has top priority. The fatality total for 2006 is reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to the same time period for 2005. “The hard work and dedication of the men and women of the Missouri State Highway Patrol has without a doubt contributed to the decrease in our traffic fatalities,” stated Colonel Keathley. Troopers are also aware by being alert for criminal activity during traffic stops they can have a significant impact in the constant battle against drugs and crime in Missouri.



“Missouri’s troopers work hard every day to protect and serve the citizens of this great state,” said Colonel Keathley. “I truly believe they are the first line of defense against illegal drugs and criminal activity. Congratulations to those who made the seizures mentioned in this news release, and ‘job well done’ to all the officers on the road.”



In addition to sharing this information with the public, Colonel Keathley will address the Missouri Transportation and Development Council Tuesday, November 28, and Blueprint for Safer Roads Coalition on Wednesday, November 29, 2006.