Bismarck  (CSi)   The North Dakota Highway Patrol – Southeast Region conducted an alcohol saturation in Ransom, Sargent, LaMoure and Dickey Counties May 19th & 20th.  Troopers from across the Southeast Region worked overtime during this time frame.

The following are the results of the overtime saturation:

2 – Driving Under the Influence arrests

2 – Open Container citations

2 – Minor in Consumption arrests

3 – Delivery of Alcohol to a Minor arrests

2 – Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia arrests

27 – Total citations issued

14 – Total warnings issued

0 – Alcohol related crashes that occurred

In 2016, approximately 40% of all traffic fatality victims in North Dakota were killed in alcohol related crashes, but approximately 50% of fatal victims in the Southeast Region were killed in alcohol related crashes.  The Southeast Region consists of the following counties:  Cass, Richland, Ransom, Sargent, Griggs, Barnes, LaMoure, Dicky, Foster, Stutsman, Logan and McIntosh Counties.

The goal of the saturation is deter and detect impaired drivers to prevent additional traffic crashes from occurring because of impaired drivers.

Fatal crashes are higher this year compared to the same time period in 2016. North Dakota has experienced 13 more fatal crashes with 14 more fatalities. The Highway Patrol is urging motorists to exercise extra caution when driving on North Dakota roadways. Driving is a full-time responsibility and requires complete attention.

Troopers will maximize time on active patrol, focusing on the most common crash-causing behaviors: speeding, right-of-way violations, alcohol use, and distractions. These actions, combined with not wearing a seat belt, can have deadly consequences.

“We are encouraging drivers to return to the basics – buckle up and obey the speed limit. Remove anything distracting your attention from driving and never drink and drive,” said Colonel Michael Gerhart. “We want everyone to arrive at their destination safely.”

All traffic laws will be strictly enforced.