NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact: Corporal Al Nothum

(314) 340-4062

C010609

June 1, 2006



EMPHASIS: 2006 Memorial Day Weekend Traffic Crash and Special Enforcement Operations Total for Troop C





Captain Ronald S. Johnson, Commanding Officer of Troop C, St. Louis, announces the Memorial Day Weekend traffic crash and enforcement totals for the Troop C area, which consists of 11 counties. The enforcement operations included All American Buckle Up Week and the (C.A.R.E.) Combined Accident Reduction Effort.



During the 2006 Memorial Day Weekend reporting period, which began on Friday, May 26, 2006 and ended on Monday, May 29, 2006, Troop C officers investigated 38 traffic crashes, including a fatality crash that occurred in St. Francois County on Monday, May 29, 2006. Troop C officers made 37 arrests for Driving While Intoxicated, issued 786 speeding summonses, 339 seat belt summonses and assisted 408 motorists.



During the period covering May 22, 2006 through May 29, 2006, the Patrol was actively involved in the “All American Buckle Up” campaign. As a result of the campaign, Troop C officers issued 559 seat belt summonses and 10 child restraint summonses.



“We know seat belts save lives. Each year hundreds of Missourians die in car crashes because they do not use safety belts. The Patrol is committed to enforcing the seat belt laws of Missouri and will continue practicing a zero tolerance stand on seat belt usage,” stated Captain Johnson.