Eye in the sky helps nab speeding drivers on I-75

10/7/2004

With a single-engine plane overhead to observe speeders, Toledo police yesterday stopped 123 motorists for suspected violations on I-75 near Alexis Road.

Police will not have a tally of citations issued during the 4 1/2-hour surveillance until later. The total usually exceeds the number of stops because some motorists are cited for seat belt, equipment, and other violations, said Lt. Leo Eggert, who from the air was giving direction to officers on the ground.

At least three vehicles were clocked going faster than 90 mph and another appeared to be going faster than 100 mph.

Motorists can expect several more airborne anti-speeding campaigns before year's end. "We do it irregularly. We may do one tomorrow, and we may not do one for a month," Lieutenant Eggert said. "We're hoping to slow traffic down, which studies show clearly reduces accidents."