St. Joseph Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol conduct joint operation

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The St. Joseph Police Department, in partnership with Missouri State Highway Patrol and its Aircraft Division, recently conducted a joint operation aimed at curbing dangerous driving and deterring criminal activity on local roadways.

The multi-agency operation combined ground enforcement units with aerial support from an MSHP helicopter, giving officers a bird's-eye view of high-risk traffic areas and helping them manage volatile situations, including fleeing motorists.

During the operation, law enforcement initiated 99 traffic stops, resulting in 15 tickets, 18 written warnings, and 74 verbal warnings.

Three vehicles fled from officers.

Authorities also served three state felony warrants and three city warrants, and made additional arrests for DWI, aggravated fleeing, and resisting.

One crash investigation was also conducted.

"The second joint operation with the Missouri State Highway Patrol in a brief timeframe highlights our relentless effort to make St. Joseph roads safer," Police Chief Paul Luster said. "Having dedicated air support from MSHP allows ground units to safely monitor, track and apprehend fleeing reckless drivers while significantly minimizing risk associated with high-speed vehicle pursuits."

The department reminded motorists to drive responsibly, buckle up, and designate a sober driver.

They also noted that these joint operations will continue throughout the year to maintain safety across the region.