Mattawa Police awarded DUI funding

MATTAWA - Thanks to a $1,675 grant from the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, the Mattawa Police Department will be able to increase DUI emphasis patrols during the upcoming holiday season.

"It's more than last year," Chief John Turley said. "Last year they gave us $900."

The MPD participates in the Central Basin Traffic Safety Task Force. As a member of the Force, it sends officers to emphasis locations determined by the Force at times determined by the Force.

Turley said emphasis patrols are likely for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. That will mean overtime for some of the officers. The grant is intended to cover some of that.

The same emphasis patrols will be observing for distracted driving and non-use of seat belts. Turley said the officers will be watching for cars that sway or swerve.

"We go by the rule: What would a reasonable person believe?" Turley said.

Turley added that it's not difficult to notice seat belts not in use. Nearly all cars have the over-the-shoulder harness, he said. If the officer doesn't see it, there will likely be a stop.

"If there are kids jumping around in the back seat, well that's pretty obvious," the Chief said.

Chief Turley told the city council on Nov. 6 that he will apply for a grant through Washington Auto Theft Prevention for up to $10,000.

"We had 19 stolen cars in the Mattawa area last year," he said.

Turley plans to use the funds for a theft awareness program via advertising. Because most of the victims are Hispanic, Spanish language messages would a big part of the program.

Turley will also apply to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs for $2,500 to install a video camera and equipment in a patrol cruiser.

"That will provide one more piece of evidence in a DUI stop and add safety for our officers." Turley said.

The MPD has four patrol cruisers. Only two are camera-equipped.

Turley told the council a radar machine was received from Grant County's surplus equipment.

He said red flags will be installed with the "children are present" signs to help alert drivers to children walking to school. It will be done after Christmas vacation.

Turley told the council that Grant PUD does not respond regarding the installation of cameras in the city. He said he will work with the county in the future on this.