News : Taking S.T.E.P.'s to ensure public safety

The Benton County Sheriff’s Office participated in the March 17th – 20th S.T.E.P. enforcement wave. This project is part of a grant from the Governors Traffic Safety Bureau. Sheriff Randy Forsyth received a 2010-2011 grant that provides $3,900.00 for radars and Alco-Sensors; $500.00 for training and educational materials; and $12,900.00 for overtime patrol for a total of $17,300.00 to provide deputies the equipment and extra time to focus on traffic safety in Benton County. This grant runs through September 30, 2011.

One of the program goals is to remind the public of the importance of traffic safety. We seek to reduce accidents through proactive enforcement, public education and awareness. We also hope to reduce injuries and deaths by encouraging all vehicle occupants to wear their seatbelts.

Deputies made (4) – OWI; (1) – driving under suspension; (1) public intoxication; and (1) – possession of alcohol under the legal age arrest. Deputies issued (13) traffic citations and (29) traffic warnings. Deputies investigated (2) traffic accidents and assist (4) motorists with various problems.

A recent seatbelt survey in Benton County shows 95% of front seat passengers were wearing their seatbelts. This is better than the state average of 93%.