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TRAFFIC SAFETY UNIT
Lieutenant David Raso
, Special Operations Division Commander
Phone: (856) 686-2204, Ext. 208
Sergeant Michael Taylor
, Special Operations Unit Supervisor / Traffic Safety Officer
Phone: (856) 686-2204, Ext. 270
The Traffic Safety Unit of the Deptford Township Police Department is dedicated to the safety of the residents of Deptford Township and the State of New Jersey through the professional and methodical investigation of motor vehicle crashes, the fair and impartial enforcement of the motor vehicle laws, enforcement of township traffic ordinances, the inspection and oversight of highway work zones, and the education of the public.
The goal of the Traffic Safety Unit is to reduce motor vehicle collisions, fatalities and injuries while facilitating the expeditious and safe movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. In recognition of the fact that this can best be achieved by voluntary compliance with traffic regulations, the traffic unit’s mission is to educate the public by representing a deterrent to improper vehicle operation. The traffic unit deploys a speed trailer to predetermined locations within the township. The trailer is an educational tool intended to focus driver attention and illustrate the difference between the driver’s actual speed and the posted speed limit.
The Traffic Safety Unit is also responsible for conducting traffic related research concerning the volume and speed of vehicular traffic at identified locations within the Township of Deptford. This research is necessary to formulate recommendations to traffic planners for improvements to the infrastructure and traffic control systems in the township. Traffic Safety Unit Members regularly attend meetings with Planning, Zoning and Department of Transportation to provide input on traffic concerns.
The Traffic Safety Unit has a certified Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) on staff that assists officers with the identification and prosecution of motorists who are operating vehicles while under the influence of prescription or illicit drugs. A
Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) police officer has been trained to observe for the signs of drug and/or alcohol impairment. DRE officers participate in training that has been approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). After successfully completing the training, all DRE officers are certified for two years and are expected to meet certain requirements to be considered for re-certification at the end of this period.
The Traffic Safety Unit also oversees school crossing guards who are responsible for crossing school children at assigned intersections throughout the Township.
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