Memorial Day Week was expected to be the largest travel time since 2020, and a number of those drivers are now facing court dates.
The Sheriff’s Office reported 284 violations and arrests, including eight fugitives, so far in this year’s Click It or Ticket campaign in Columbus County alone. Saturation patrols and checkpoints began here May 22, and continue through June 4 statewide.
“The goal of this enforcement effort is to ensure all passengers in motor vehicles utilize a seat belt properly and to ensure compliance of the motor vehicle codes,” Sheriff Bill Rogers said in a press release.
As of Tuesday, the release said the CCSO has issued 120 traffic violations; 44 seatbelt violations; 48 speeding tickets; and made 29 arrests for driving while license revoked. Ten motorists were cited for no insurance, seven had registration violations, and eight fugitives from justice have been captured.
The campaign is part of the Governor’s Highway Safety Program (GHSP). Participating agencies receive funding for vehicles, personnel and training for motor patrols, although the deputies and equipment can also be used for regular duties.
Memorial Day weekend marks the start of what state officials call the “100 deadliest days of the year” in North Carolina. Summer means more vacationers, young drivers and impaired drivers on the highways.
In addition to the Highway Patrol and other law enforcement agencies, the state Forensic Blood Alcohol Testing vehicle, known as the BATmobile, has been deployed here. The BATmobile has work stations for breathalyzer testing as well as a magistrate’s office, allowing arresting officers to spend time in the field, instead of shuttling prisoners to the jail and magistrate office in Whiteville.
