SMITHFIELD – The Smithfield Police Department, assisted by several other law enforcement agencies, conducted a traffic checkpoint Saturday night, October 30th on W. Market Street (US 70 West) at M. Durwood Stephenson Highway.
Smithfield Police were assisted by Selma Police, Four Oaks Police, Princeton Police, Kenly Police, Wilson’s Mills Police, State Highway Patrol, B.A.T. Mobile, and Johnston County District Attorney’s Office.
Officers said the ultimate goal was to reduce the number of alcohol-related crashes and fatalities through education, prevention and enforcement.
A total of 88 charges were issued during the four hour checkpoint. They included 9 driving while impaired arrests, 34 no operator’s license, 8 driving on a revoked license, 15 registration and inspection violations, 6 misdemeanor drug violations, 1 seat belt, 3 child safety seat, and 1 concealed weapon violation. One wanted person was apprehended.
Smithfield Police said the joint operation was a great success and an excellent example of agency collaboration and zero tolerance when it comes to driving under the influence.
Great job to get these people off the highway. Keep it up please and let’s all hope the resulting penalties back up the police and are not just a slap on the hand.
They should do this at least once a month!