From the Office of the Sheriff Sheriff Dennis L. Dotson

For Immediate Release

NEWS RELEASE

Date: March 5, 2007

Summary:

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office deputies, Newport Police Department officers, and Oregon State Police troopers have successfully completed a safety belt enforcement campaign aimed primarily at increasing safety belt and correct child safety seat use. The local enforcement effort was part of an international 3-Flags program funded by The Oregon Department of Transportation and involved hundreds of law enforcement officers throughout Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.

The Lincoln County law enforcement agencies stepped up enforcement during the 3-Flags blitz beginning February 5th and ending February 18th using grant funds from the Oregon Department of Transportation. During the enforcement period the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office issued 39 citations; 13 of which were relating to safety belt issues, 15 for speeding, 11 for other driving violation issues. In addition to the citations issued there were 177 warning contacts made, and 1 arrest was made as a result of the traffic contacts.

Roadside surveys conducted before the blitz indicated safety belt compliance, in Newport and other areas of Lincoln County, averaged 96%. After the blitz compliance remained at 96%.

Additional 3-Flags blitzes are scheduled for May and August of 2006.

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