There is a misconception that when Wright City patrol officers are stationed along Interstate 70, they are trying to catch speeding motorists. That is according to Police Chief Doug Saulters who provided statistics showing the majority of traffic stops in Wright City are along city streets. “When a passing motorist finds a Wright City patrol car parked in the center median or on the shoulder, it’s automatically assumed it’s a speed trap,” said Sgt. Casey Doyle, a veteran patrolman. “In all actuality, while on the interstate, rarely do I even turn my radar on while I’m on the interstate. It’s not my intent to write a speeding ticket. I’m looking for criminals. “Working the interstate is an added initiative, but patrolling city streets our primary concern and our numbers reflect that,” Doyle continued. Additionally, he asserted that people should not assume that perception is reality.“But if an aggressive driver takes a hint by seeing my car and slows down, maybe everyone can get home safely that day,” Doyle said. Saulters said he is also aware of questions and concerns over whether or not a traffic stop or an investigative stop along the interstate presents a hazard to other motorists. “When conducting a vehicle stop, many precautions are taken to ensure the safest environment for the motorist and officer,” Doyle explained. “It’s important to keep in mind that even if someone has committed a crime, we are responsible for their safety. “Every traffic stop is dangerous,” he added. “I try to park on straight sections of road in an attempt to give motorists plenty of warning and time to move over safely. I even relocate many of my traffic stops to safer locations if the driver stops in a dangerous area.” Doyle also said that many traffic crashes along interstates and highways result from inattention.“In my experience, the majority of collisions result from motorists watching a traffic stop and not the roadway in front of them,” he remarked. By the Numbers Here is a breakdown of various statistics on traffic stops conducted by the Wright City Police Department: Stops for Moving Violations — 1,053; Stops for Equipment Violations — 275; Stops for License Plate Violations — 187; Investigative Stops — 252; Tickets Issued — 563; Warnings Given — 874; No Action Taken — 98; Interstate Stops — 223; Stops on U.S. Highways — 7; Stops on State Highways — 157; Stops on County Roadways — 68; and Stops on City Streets — 1,044.

Answer Complaints Doyle and other members of the Wright City Police Department noted that hearing complaints is nothing new. But Doyle noted that when he takes a complaint from a citizen, he seeks to educate the individual and to foster a positive relationship between the police department and the public. “I’ve heard complaints firsthand from citizens who generally change their preformed opinions once I explain things,” Doyle said. “It’s all about communication, although you can’t make everyone happy all the time. “I honestly believe most people are supportive of what we’re trying to accomplish,” Doyle continued. “Those who don’t support us are quick to contact city officials with their complaints and suggestions on how cops should be cops and where they should be cops. It’s not a new concept but puzzling to me all the same. It would resemble me suggesting a contractor build a home a certain way, when I have no experience in the matter. “I’m a dedicated police officer and I enjoy helping people, even if they don’t see it,” he concluded. Wright City police car