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Helicopters Used in Operation Safe Ride

By Michelle Sherwood

Local authorities are stepping up enforcement on the ground and in the sky to make sure people are driving safely.

The original effort started back in July by the Springfield Police Department when the city saw its 10th motorcycle death. Now, the PD, the highway patrol and the Greene County Sheriff's Department are all working together to crack down on bad drivers. Saturday, the highway patrol used its helicopter to find reckless drivers.

It's also a way for police and troopers to work together when trying to pull over a driver. The cost isn't cheap, though—it costs $500 an hour for the chopper and that doesn't include manpower.

However, authorities say it is worth the price.

"In the event that the motorist chooses not to yield to the police officer,” says Missouri Highway Patrol Corporal Dan Wohnoutha. “The helicopter is already in the air, in the area, and most of the time has already identified the vehicle.”

Law enforcement agencies have been using the chopper for about three months now. And have caught at least three people who've tried to run away from officers.

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