State police release 2011 statistics

[December 15, 2011]  SPRINGFIELD -- The Illinois State Police District 9 commander, Capt. Anna Segura, announced a summary of total activity to date for 2011. During 2011, District 9 has handled 34,731 incidents. Included in these incidents were 7,379 requests for service. The 27,352 remaining incidents were initiated by troopers.

Thus far in 2011, District 9 has handled 1,170 crashes. Among these crashes were 34 fatal crashes, which resulted in 36 fatalities. Alcohol was a factor in 33 percent of the fatal crashes. Since 2009, District 9 has experienced a 13 percent reduction in traffic crash fatalities.

District 9 continues its mission and commitment to keeping the roadways safe for motorists. The following numbers reflect the concerted effort of District 9 officers and its impact in reducing traffic crash fatalities. During 2011, District 9 troopers arrested 553 DUI drivers, issued 9,406 citations for speeding and 3,101 citations for failing to wear a seat belt. Other violations of the Illinois Vehicle Code observed by District 9 troopers resulted in a total of 14,253 citations and 11,509 written warnings. District 9 troopers also made 770 criminal arrests, including the seizure of 60.5 pounds of cannabis, 3 pounds of cocaine and six firearms. District 9 troopers also handled 1,573 motorist assists and generated 1,362 field reports.

Second-division and commercial vehicle safety also remains a priority for District 9. During 2011, 1,573 second-division vehicles (truck tractors, semitrailers, etc.) were inspected, resulting in 313 being placed out of service.

"District 9 troopers are dedicated to maintaining safe roadways and providing a safe environment for citizens," Segura said. "In the year to come, District 9 troopers will continue to focus their efforts on education and enforcement, with the goal of reducing traffic crashes and traffic crash fatalities."

[Text from file received from Illinois State Police District 9]