JUST THE FACTS

January 10, 2025 Volume 16 Issue 2

AVOID DISTRACTIONS

Avoiding distractions behind the wheel is always crucial, and the winter months can present additional challenges with unpredictable, dangerous road conditions. Snow and ice on the road mean vehicles take longer to stop, so quick reaction times are even more important. By staying focused and avoiding distractions, drivers can better adapt to sudden changes, like an icy patch or a car skidding ahead. A momentary distraction, such as glancing at a phone or adjusting the radio, can lead to losing control on icy roads or not seeing hazards like black ice, slower vehicles, or pedestrians.

Following these tips can help drivers avoid becoming distracted behind the wheel:

Put the phone away: Silence your phone and store it out of reach before driving. Use “Do Not Disturb” mode to block notifications.
Plan ahead: Set your GPS, queue up your playlist, or take care of texts and calls before you start driving.
Pull over safely: If something urgent comes up, find a safe spot to pull over before handling it.
Create a driving routine: Make driving a focused activity by committing to zero distractions during your trip.
Enlist passengers: Let passengers handle navigation, music or calls, so you can keep your attention on the road.
Secure loose items: Store items securely to avoid the need to reach for anything while driving.
Lead by example: Show others – especially young drivers – how to drive without distractions. Be the role model for safe driving.

Snow, ice and reduced visibility require a driver's full attention to navigate safely. Staying focused behind the wheel is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent crashes and save lives.

IN CUSTODY ARRESTS THIS WEEK

Star Lammers (pictured to the right) was formally charged with 2nd degree DWI (GM) and neglect of a child (GM) stemming from a driving complaint on January 4th at 5:42 pm. Dispatch received a driving complaint of a car that almost struck another vehicle, then ran off the road and came back up on the road and continued driving all over the center and fog lines. Officers came into the area and observed the suspect vehicle drive over a curb and fail to maintain driving in their lane. Officers stopped the vehicle and made contact with the driver, identified as Lammers. A child was also a passenger in the vehicle. Lammers displayed many signs of impairment and was placed under arrest for DWI. She provided a breath sample which registered 0.30 on the DMT machine. This is close to 4 times the legal limit.
Henry Fox was formally charged with 2nd degree possession cocaine or methamphetamine (F) and 2nd degree sale/ possession penalty- subsequent conviction stemming from a January 3rd incident.
Emillie Borwege-Kerney was formally charged with 2nd degree DWI (GM) and refusal to submit to chemical test stemming from a January 4th incident.

INCREASE IN DOMESTIC ARRESTS

This past month we have seen an increase in domestic related arrests. This is unfortunately a common theme each year with the holiday stressors and financial burdens upon people. Remember, if you or a family member is in an abusive relationship, please reach out to our local services for help. There is help out there at any time. One organization in town is the Crisis Resource Center, who recently moved to 127 W. Pearl St.