[Press Release] Rise In Traffic Operations
Posted: 12 Feb 2025, 18:36
Los Santos County Sheriff's Department "A TRADITION OF SERVICE" News Release February 12th, 2025 |
- Rise In Traffic Operations
- Blaine County: “Smokeys,” “Bears,” “Blacktop Rangers”—these are just some of the names our deputies have been called while conducting traffic duties. While it’s all in good fun to poke at our traffic division, we’ve been ramping up traffic operations recently. So, we wanted to take a moment to share some insight into what our traffic division does and what you might encounter out there on the roads.
TOLL BOOTH CHECKPOINTS
In these operations, our deputies are stationed at toll booths to monitor traffic. Before you even reach the checkpoint, your speed may already have been clocked by a deputy positioned about a mile down the road. When you arrive at the checkpoint, you’ll be asked to present your driver’s license, and your license plate will be checked to determine if you were speeding. While your ID is being processed, our K9 unit will conduct an open-air sniff of your vehicle. Based on the K9’s response, you may be subject to further screening. During these checkpoints, you are considered detained, and attempting to flee would result in felony charges, including but not limited VF01, along with additional penalties.
OPEN ROAD CHECKPOINTS
This is a more extensive version of our toll booth checkpoints and is conducted in areas outside toll zones. These operations often involve coordination with the Police Department’s Traffic Enforcement Division (TED). With over 10 TSD deputies on site, we set up an extensive array of cones, lights, and barricades to safely manage the flow of traffic. Similar to the toll booth checkpoints, a concealed deputy uses a radar gun to clock speeds and relays the information to the operation director. Additionally, we position a large vehicle, such as a truck, at the entrance to create a one-way funnel, ensuring no one bypasses the checkpoint.
We reached out to a TSD Deputy, who wanted to remain anonymous for a first hand experience of the dangers of these checkpoints
"I was stationed as a “Gate Guard” with a marked SD unit, allowing one or two cars into the checkpoint at a time. A red La Coureuse approached the gate at high speed, and the driver immediately became combative. I calmly but firmly asked him to relax and allow the operation to proceed. Instead, he turned around and attempted to flee in the opposite direction, only to be blocked by a large police vehicle.
At that point, he began going back and forth like a “trapped mouse.” Once we managed to guide him into the checkpoint, his aggressive behavior and pending felony charges made him extremely unpredictable. When we instructed him to turn off his engine, he suddenly accelerated and aimed his vehicle at a deputy. In his blind rage, however, he collided with a cement barrier, causing his car to stall. At that moment, both PD and SD units moved in, pulled him from the vehicle, and placed him under arrest”
BAIT CARS
This tactic has been implemented periodically throughout the city. For operational security, we can’t share too many details, but here’s the bottom line: if you see an unlocked car with the engine running, don’t take it for a joyride. We have the means to track it, and trust us, it won’t end well for you.
Assistant Sheriff Steve Smyth is the current Director of the Patrol Operations Bureau, and the individual who made the Traffic Services Detail come to life.
Asst. Sheriff Steve Smyth
I made a commitment to this state that Traffic Enforcement would ultimately be on the rise given my return to a focus in this area. As was with the promise with the former Vinewood Traffic Division of the LSPD, I can once again proudly state that the Traffic Services Detail has begun to make a name for themselves, clamping down on vehicular related crime across the state. I am immensely proud of the TSD since its launch in December 2024. We have proven that the re-launch of the former Highway Enforcement Division was well worth the cause!
I would like to show my appreciation for the division so far in its relatively short journey through the new year, and I look forward to continuing its success for the future!
God bless!
Our traffic division plays a vital role in maintaining safety and accountability on the roads, whether through toll booth checkpoints, open road operations, or specialized tactics like bait cars. These efforts not only deter dangerous driving but also help us identify and address criminal activity. While these operations can sometimes lead to unpredictable encounters, like the one shared by a TSD deputy, our team remains committed to protecting the community and ensuring the roads are safe for everyone.
###For Information, Contact:
Deputy Sheriff III Mason Ross
Writer, Sheriff's Information Division
[email protected]
Sheriff's Information Division
Los Santos County Sheriff's Department
Procopio Promenade 1, Paleto Bay
Los Santos, SA, 909