Through effective traffic enforcement, the Ohio State Highway Patrol says they are significantly impacting the criminal element on our public roadways and in our communities. The Patrol says that by troopers taking extra time during each traffic stop, and paying close attention to possible indicators of criminal activity – what started as a traffic stop can quickly escalate into a felony arrest.
Through June of this year the Patrol has initiated 2,685 felony cases, with 46 percent related to a felony drug charge and nearly 27 percent related to a felony assault charge.
There were 24 felony arrests reported in Marion County. There were a combined 33 reported from the counties surrounding Marion.
“Every day our troopers are out on the road removing felons and drugs out of our communities, “Colonel John Born, Patrol superintendent. “Taking the time to look for criminal indicators can go a long way towards a safer Ohio.”
In addition, troopers have made 4,728 drug arrests during the first six months of 2013, an increase of 18 percent over the same time-frame in 2012, and an increase of 42 percent when compared to the previous three-year average.
Drug interdiction efforts are essential to improving the quality of life in Ohio, said Born. Dangerous drugs are being trafficked into Ohio, broken down into smaller quantities and are making their way into Ohio communities.
During the first 6 months troopers have seized more prescription pills with stimulants up 101 percent; depressants up 87 percent; and hallucinogens up 77 percent when compared to the previous three-year average.
Drivers are encouraged to call #677 to report impaired driving or drug activity.
For a complete statistical analysis for 2011, click here.
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