Woodford County, IL – The Woodford County Sheriff’s Office has been awarded a federal grant to strengthen traffic safety enforcement through September 2026. The funding, part of the Illinois Department of Transportation’s Sustained Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP), will allow the department to increase patrols targeting impaired and distracted driving.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the grant supports operations under the well-known safety banners “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Click It or Ticket,” and “Drive High. Get a DUI.” Chief Deputy Dennis Tipsword said the program’s top priority is protecting residents and holding unsafe drivers accountable.
The enforcement period runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. Deputies will focus on impaired driving, speeding, seat belt violations, and other dangerous roadway behaviors, especially during high-risk times and holidays.
Statewide, the campaigns aim to reduce crashes by encouraging seat belt use and discouraging alcohol- and drug-impaired driving. The Sheriff’s Office says these efforts are part of an ongoing mission to make Illinois roads safer for everyone traveling through Woodford County.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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