SAFE Team Expands Presence With Checkpoints On Rural Roads

JOHNSTON COUNTY, N.C. – The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office SAFE (Sheriff’s Aggressive Field Enforcement) Team has increased patrols and established random checkpoints across the county this week as part of an ongoing public safety effort.

Officials say the heightened enforcement is focused on improving roadway safety and deterring criminal activity. Checkpoints are being conducted at varying locations and times, shifting locations several times daily to maximize their effectiveness.

On March 31, deputies operated a checkpoint on Webb Mill Road outside of Four Oaks. Another checkpoint was set up April 1 on Ridge Road at Clayton Road near the Harnett County line, one of several locations used throughout the week.

According to the sheriff’s office, checkpoints play a key role in identifying impaired drivers and ensuring motorists are in compliance with state laws. Deputies emphasize that checkpoints are not only enforcement tools but also deterrents for criminal activity.

Officials add that these efforts are especially important on rural roadways, where higher speeds and lower traffic volumes can contribute to more severe crashes.

“Our goal with checkpoints is simple, keep our community safe while also curbing criminal activity,” Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell said. “These operations help us remove impaired drivers and identify illegal behavior that puts our citizens at risk.”

The sheriff’s office said the SAFE Team will continue conducting patrols and checkpoints across Johnston County in the coming days, with the goal of maintaining a strong and visible law enforcement presence.