SJPD reveals results of traffic enforcement operation along Belt Highway

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) -- The St. Joseph Police Department conducted a targeted traffic enforcement operation along the Belt Highway in early July as part of the department's ongoing efforts to reduce crashes and improve roadway safety.

According to the SJPD, the Belt Highway is one of St. Joseph's highest crash corridors, making it important to be proactive with traffic enforcement to reduce dangerous driving behaviors and protect motorists.

The July 10 operation resulted in 41 traffic stops, 11 citations and 33 warnings for a variety of traffic and equipment violations.

Citations were issued for:

• Speeding (2)
• No insurance (3)
• Seatbelt violations (2)
• Driving while suspended or revoked (1)
• No valid driver's license (1)
• Illegal left turn (1)
• Expired driver's license plates (1)

Warnings were issued for:

• Speeding (8)
• Expired license plates (8)
• Defective equipment (5)
• Improper method of display (4)
• Other traffic violations (5)
• Stop sign violation (1)
• Traffic signal violation (1)
• Failure to yield (1)
• Turn signal violation (1)

"Our priority along the Belt Highway and across all of St. Joseph is simple: save lives," St. Joseph Chief of Police Paul Luster said. "High-crash areas demand proactive policing. Every stop made, whether it results in a citation or an educational warning, serves as a direct reminder that safe driving is a non-negotiable standard in our community."

SJPD said it remains committed to reducing crashes through education, enforcements and high-visibility traffic initiatives throughout the community.

Additionally, the department is encouraging drivers to obey posted speed limits, wear their seatbelts, eliminate distractions and follow all traffic laws to keep St. Joseph's roadways safe.