The New York State Police conducted Operation Southern Shield on the Southern State Parkway from April 24 through June 30. During that time, troopers issued more than 4,000 citations.
The goal of Operation Southern Shield was to reduce preventable crashes on the Southern State Parkway through targeted enforcement efforts, save lives, and remind motorists that every decision made behind the wheel has consequences. The operation had one message: “Safe Roads Start with You.” The New York State Police will continue to promote this message year-round.
During Operation Southern Shield, the New York State Police conducted multiple enforcement efforts, which resulted in 4,454 citations given out. Of that amount, 906 were for speeding, 351 were for distracted driving, 46 were for violations of the Move Over Law and 3,039 were for other Vehicle and Traffic Law violations, including failure to observe safety restraint and seat belt laws and other moving violations.
In addition, 112 motorists were arrested for driving while intoxicated.
“Our local and state police respond to countless preventable tragedies on our roads, and Operation Southern Shield was a necessary reminder to our residents of the importance of driving safely,” said Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly. “All traffic violations, big or small, come with the risk of serious collisions and life-altering outcomes. This operation cracked down on all-too-common dangerous conduct behind the wheel, and I thank the New York State Police for making it such a priority. All New Yorkers can learn something from Operation Southern Shield, and I hope it leads to a summer of safe travels.”
“Too many drivers are still gambling with their lives and the lives of others behind the wheel,” Suffolk County DA Ray Tierney added. “Speeding, distracted driving and impaired driving continue to put Suffolk County families at risk, and this operation shows exactly why sustained enforcement matters. I commend the New York State Police for their work, and I want every driver on our roads to understand that reckless choices behind the wheel will have consequences.”