By Herald Staff

JASPER — The Dubois County Sheriff’s Office was awarded a $6,000 grant from the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute to conduct several high-visibility enforcement campaigns designed to prevent traffic injuries and fatalities.

The funding was provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as part of the state’s Comprehensive Highway Injury Reduction Program.

“We’re always watching for impaired and dangerous drivers, but certain times of the year, usually those associated with heavy drinking or substance abuse, come with additional risks and challenges,” said Chief Deputy Chris Faulkenberg. “This grant allows us to step up our efforts during those periods so that we can further keep road users and members of our community safe.”

The funds will be used by the department to conduct overtime patrols and carry out several targeted enforcement campaigns throughout the year. Those include national mobilizations, like Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and Click It or Ticket, as well as others developed and driven by the state, such as the Stop Arm Violation Enforcement program.

Although officers will be watching for all traffic violations during the enforcement periods, the campaigns mainly target dangerous, impaired or unrestrained drivers, and will occur during peak travel seasons and notorious drinking holidays, like St. Patrick’s Day and Labor Day weekend.

“When it comes to traffic safety, zero fatalities is the only acceptable number,” said Robert Duckworth, ICJI traffic safety director. “Until we get to that point, we’ll continue to work with our law enforcement partners to reinforce just how important it is to buckle up, drive sober and follow the speed limit.”

To learn more about the Dubois County Sheriff’s Office, visit: www.duboiscountysd.com.