Highway Patrol makes four drug arrests during water enforcement saturation in McDonald County

(From Highway Patrol Troop D)

Captain Juan Villanueva, commanding officer of Troop D, announces the results of water enforcement saturations in McDonald County on the Elk River and in Dallas/Laclede counties on the Niangua River. Both efforts were conducted on Saturday, June 24, 2017. The goal of these enforcement operations was to detect intoxicated boaters and other violations that contribute to boating crashes and drownings. The enforcement locations were selected based on the high number of drinking- and impairment-related boating crashes, in addition to reported behavioral problems, illegal drug usage, and underage alcohol consumption.

The following is a list of enforcement contacts made by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Department of Conservation during the saturations:

Elk River
Total Boating Citations -- 6
Possession Of Glass Container Violations -- 2
Misdemeanor Drug Arrests -- 4
Warnings -- 3

Niangua River
Total Number Of Contacts -- 85
Total Boating Citations -- 21
Minor In Possession Violation -- 1
Littering Citation -- 1
Felony Drug Arrests -- 3
Misdemeanor Drug Arrests -- 12
Personal Flotation Device Violations -- 2
Misdemeanor Warrant Arrest -- 1
Fishing Permit Violation -- 1
Warnings -- 75

"The Missouri State Highway Patrol continues to ensure that Missouri's waterways are safe and enjoyable to the public. Boaters are reminded to contact the Missouri State Highway Patrol using *55 if they need emergency assistance," stated Captain Villanueva.

Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!!