Troopers note quiet state fair response

PALMER — The Alaska State Troopers Wednesday released statistics from their enforcement efforts during the 12-day Alaska State Fair.

According to trooper statistics, out of 1,723 traffic stops, 1,580 resulted in citations. Also, one of every 22 traffic stops resulted a criminal offense.

In an e-mail, troopers spokeswoman Beth Ipsen said a notable number among the statistics is almost 18 percent of drivers stopped by troopers did not have proof of insurance.

“However, a great accomplishment is the absence of fatal crashes,” Ipsen said in the e-mail, “one of the main goals in traffic enforcement.”

Of six vehicle crashes in the vicinity of the fairgrounds, only one involved injuries, according to the troopers.

The following are statistics from enforcement efforts during the Aug. 21 through Sept. 1., state fair period.

Of the 1,723 traffic stops, 1,580 citations were issued including:

• 609 for speeding

• 344 for equipment violations

• 305 for no proof of insurance

• 131 for seatbelt violations

• 86 operator license and other violations

• 58 for expired plates.

Enforcement efforts produced:

• 22 driving under the influence charges, three of which were felony DUIs

• 38 driving while license is either suspended, revoked or canceled summons to appear

• 8 warrant arrests

• 4 felony arrests

• 5 misdemeanor arrests

• 2 recovered stolen vehicles

Contact Michael Rovito at michael.rovito@frontiersman.com or 352-2252.