Topeka police are increasing their presence on city streets as a result of a nationwide campaign

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Topeka Police will increase their presence on city streets this summer to crack down on traffic violations and seat belt safety violations.

The Topeka Police Department (TPD) announced May 3 its intention to participate in the statewide Memorial Day “Click It or Ticket” campaign. This begins on Thursday, May 16th and ends on Sunday, June 2nd.

City of Topeka spokesperson Rosie Nichols says motorists should expect additional officers patrolling the city during this period. They will focus on enforcing seat belts and other traffic laws.

In addition to this campaign, TPD will also be establishing additional sobriety checkpoints this year. These will be active around major holidays or events that typically involve heavy drinking.

Click It or Ticket is funded by a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Special Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP). The TPD’s current contract runs from October 2023 to September 2024 and is worth $30,000.

Last year’s campaign resulted in more than 140 cases in which law enforcement issued citations or made arrests. In total, 76 adults were cited for wearing a seatbelt, 13 driving violations were identified and there were two arrests for drunk driving.

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