Welcome to Skagit County

December 8th 2009

In Honor of the “Stars”

For the past 18 years, law enforcement agencies throughout Washington have conducted “Night of 1,000 Stars” traffic safety emphasis patrols. Each star symbolizes the badge worn by an on duty law enforcement officer. This year’s patrol, scheduled for Friday, December 11, is dedicated to the Washington officers who have died in the line of duty this year. These officers will remain “stars” in the hearts of their communities.

This statewide enforcement will remove impaired drivers from our roads. Impaired driving caused by alcohol – or some other drug – is the primary reason why people die or are critically injured in motor vehicle crashes. Officers will also be on the lookout for people who speed, drive aggressively, are not wearing a seatbelt, or violate other traffic laws. Wintertime driving can be hazardous. When mixed with alcohol or drugs it becomes deadly.

Law enforcement agencies participating in the “Night of 1,000 Stars,” include the Police Departments of Anacortes, Burlington, Mount Vernon, Sedro-Woolley and the Swinomish Police. These agencies will be joined by officers from the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office and the Washington State Patrol.

This “Night of 1,000 Stars” is dedicated to Deputy Sheriff Stephen Gallager, Lewis County; Officer Tim Brenton, Seattle Police Department; and four officers from the Lakewood Police Department; Sergeant Mark Renninger, Officer Tina Griswold, Officer Ronald Owens, and Officer Greg Richards.

The “Night of 1,000 Stars” is a cooperative effort involving the statewide Target Zero Traffic Safety Task Forces, the Washington Traffic Safety Commission, and law enforcement agencies throughout Washington State.