For Immediate Release: October 30, 2008

Troop T, Citizen Volunteers Launch Halloween Safety Effort
“Pumpkin Patrol” Aimed At Preventing Dangerous Halloween Pranks

The New York State Thruway Authority today announced that State Police Troop T and citizen volunteers will once again start “Pumpkin Patrols” statewide this Halloween week. The patrols, which began in 1976, are meant to prevent dangerous Halloween pranks and protect travelers along the 641-mile NYS Thruway.

“Many thanks to Troop T and the numerous volunteers who continue to keep Thruway motorists safe during the week of Halloween,” said Thruway Authority Executive Director Michael Fleischer. “Due to the vigilance of the volunteer groups and Troop T, the statewide Pumpkin Patrols help deter pranks and dangerous activity along the highway.”

These patrols are made possible by members of State Police Troop T, local citizen band radio clubs (“CB” operators) and amateur radio operators (HAMs). Troop T, whose members patrol the Thruway exclusively, and the volunteers, will be on watch beginning Thursday, October 30, through Friday, October 31.

“Along the Thruway, Members of Troop T will be out in full force monitoring any unusual activity to help minimize any potential hazards to travelers,” said Troop T Major Robert C. Meyers. “In addition to patrolling the Thruway’s roads and bridges, Troop T will also be watching for intoxicated drivers and conducting seat belt checks.”

The volunteers assisting Troop T will monitor Thruway overpasses statewide and report any unusual activity to local State Police or law enforcement. Sixteen organizations from 20 counties have asked to participate in this year’s effort. In addition to Halloween pranks, Troop T will be keeping watch for other violations, including speeding, driving while intoxicated and aggressive driving.

For further information on the Pumpkin Patrol, please contact Sergeant Charles F. Stumpf, State Police Troop T at 518-436-3134.

The following is a list of local coordinators for this effort:

The Authority offers a free email service called TRANSalert to its customers via email or text messaging to inform them of major unscheduled incidents that may affect their travel on the Thruway. To sign up for TRANSalert service, customers can visit the Authority's website at www.nysthruway.gov/tas/.

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