Missouri State Highway Patrol launches STORM team
KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., (KBSI) – The Missouri State Highway Patrol has formed a specialized unit to crack down on criminal activity and hazardous driving across the state.
The Strategic Traffic Operations and Rapid Mobilization (STORM) team, established Sept. 1, consists of 23 troopers with expertise ranging from canine units and impaired driving enforcement to hazardous moving violations, drug interdiction, and motorcycle patrol. The Patrol’s Aircraft Division will frequently assist in operations.
The unit conducted its first large-scale deployment Sept. 16 in Jackson County, focusing on dangerous driving and drug-related offenses. That operation included:
72 traffic stops
89 warnings
5 speeding citations
14 hazardous moving citations
27 non-moving citations
18 misdemeanor arrests
12 felony arrests
1 firearm seizure
Col. Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Highway Patrol, said the creation of STORM is a joint effort between the Patrol and the Missouri Department of Public Safety to help ensure Missouri remains a safe place to live and visit.
The STORM team will be deployed across Missouri as needed, with a focus on high-crash roadways, street takeover events, and areas with elevated criminal activity.
