Gaston County Police is proud to announce the establishment of the Highway Interdiction and Traffic Safety (HITS) team. This team is dedicated to enhancing roadway safety and combatting illegal activities on our roadways. HITS will play a crucial role in ensuring our communities' safety and protecting all motorists' well-being.
The primary objective of HITS is to proactively address the various challenges associated with highway safety, including but not limited to speeding, aggressive driving, distracted driving, impaired driving, and drug trafficking. This newly formed unit will collaborate with local and state agencies to effectively enforce traffic laws, identify criminal activity, and safeguard our roadways from potential threats.
Moreover, HITS will actively collaborate with community organizations, schools, and other stakeholders to educate the public on safe driving practices, the danger of impaired driving, and the importance of reporting suspicious activities. Through these educational initiatives, HITS aims to foster a culture of responsible driving and enhance public awareness about each individual's role in ensuring roadway safety.
Assignment to this team is considered a collateral duty assignment, which will not require any additional officers. HITS will initially consist of eight County Police officers that will receive specialized training in traffic enforcement, crash investigation, and car seat installation. Sergeant R.C. Parsons will lead this team as he has completed advanced training in traffic crash investigation, completed the Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Certificate program through the NC Justice Academy, and is a Child Passenger Safety Technician. “By combining targeted enforcement with comprehensive education, we can create a safer environment for all motorists, allowing them to travel with more confidence and peace of mind,” added Sergeant R.C. Parsons.
HITS will continue to build upon the mission of the Gaston County Police Department to enhance safety and security through police services which reflect our compassion and concern for the quality of life of all citizens.
