MADD Recognizes Chesterfield Police Officers

Submitted to Patch by Chesterfield Police Department

Chesterfield Police Officers Todd Lantz and Tim Turntine were recently recognized by the Gateway Affiliate of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for their efforts in enforcing DWI laws. Each year, MADD recognizes those courageous men and women of law enforcement who sacrifice their lives daily to make our roadways safe.

“These officers who are honored go above and beyond the call of duty to stop the crime of drunk driving, and by doing so, they spare more families the pain of losing someone they love,” said Meghan Carter, Executive Director of the Gateway Affiliate of MADD. “It is with this sentiment that we at MADD Gateway see these men and women as heroes.”

This year, MADD Gateway awarded 94 law enforcement officials from 25 St. Louis area departments for their dedication and commitment to saving lives. Chesterfield Police Officers Lantz and Turntine were recipients of this recognition.

Since beginning his police career in late 2006, Turntine has demonstrated a dedication and passion for the apprehension of drunk drivers. He led the Department in DWI arrests in 2009 and 2008, as well as being tied for the most in 2007. During the period July 2009 – June 2010, he also led in DWI arrests and is leading the current year with 21 arrests.

Officer Lantz, an officer since 2007, was recognized for his adeptness in the apprehension of drunk drivers. He has been very successful in detecting impaired drivers as well as minors in possession. He had the second most DWI arrests in 2009 with 14 arrests, and second most during the July 2009 – June 2010 reporting period with 15, and with 13, he is second in the number of DWI arrests this year. He frequently volunteers for the department’s DWI saturation patrols, and made two DWI arrests while working the department’s first sobriety checkpoint at the end of September 2010.

“We are proud to have such outstanding law enforcement professionals as officers Lantz and Turntine,” said Chesterfield Police Chief Ray Johnson. “Their efforts along with our increased DWI checkpoints signify the importance placed on taking impaired drivers off the roads.”

The mission of Mothers Against Drunk Driving is to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking.” To date, MADD’s work has saved nearly 300,000 lives.