Missouri state troopers to be out in force over Labor Day weekend

POPLAR BLUFF, Mo. -- While Southeast Missouri residents enjoy a break during the Labor Day weekend, Missouri State Highway Patrol officers will be on the job.

Once again, officers in Troop E will take part in the 20-Mile Trooper project to promote safety and to reduce the number of crashes in the Troop E area from Aug. 31 through Sept. 3.

According to Capt. George E. Ridens, Troop E will post a trooper every 20 miles on interstates 55 and 57 and on selected secondary roads. The objective of the project is to place a trooper close to motorists who may need help and to enforce traffic laws, he said.

"This weekend is the traditional end of the summer season, and we will make every effort to keep the motoring public safe during their travels," Ridens said in a news release. "Last year, we saw a 9 percent increase in fatalities in the Troop E area, and we will do everything we can to reduce this statistic. So, please, wear your seat belt and don't drink and drive."