Illinois State Police Troop 9 has released the results of recent nighttime enforcement patrols conducted across six Southern Illinois counties.
Troop 9 Commander Captain Bruce Waggoner announced that the special patrols were conducted in Effingham, Fayette, Hamilton, Marion, Wabash and White counties, with troopers focusing on impaired driving, seat belt violations and other traffic offenses.
The enforcement efforts took place during overnight hours, between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m., when authorities say the risk of serious and fatal crashes is especially high.
According to State Police, troopers reported 53 total citations and arrests, including five DUI citations and 21 other alcohol- or drug-related charges. The department also reported 56 speeding violations and 152 written warnings.
The reported figures contain a discrepancy, as the individual violations listed exceed the stated total of 53 citations and arrests.
State Police officials emphasized the importance of nighttime traffic enforcement, noting that more than half of all fatal crashes in Illinois occur during nighttime hours.
Authorities also report that alcohol or drugs are contributing factors in more than 47 percent of fatal crashes.
The patrols were part of an ongoing effort to reduce impaired driving, increase seat belt compliance and improve roadway safety throughout the region.
The special enforcement project was funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation.