Chief Begonis Updates Selectmen on Current, Future Traffic Safety Initiatives

At their Monday meeting, Wilmington Selectmen received a presentation from Police Chief Michael Begonis regarding recent regional traffic safety initiatives. 

Begonis reported through eight traffic safety operations conducted between May 2012 and Aug. 2013, police made 56 arrests for operating under the influence. 

The operations were conducted by Wilmington, Tewksbury Reading, Burlington and State Police, resulting in 1,133 traffic stops for a total of 108 arrests and 978 citations, according to Begonis. 

"We're targeting time frames when the community is most blighted with people driving under the influence of alcohol," Begonis said. "It's a great testament to this department that we stepped up traffic enforcement in the community in general."

Begonis also noted that motor vehicle accidents had decreased in Wilmington in recent years, with 827 crashes in 2011, 707 in 2012 and even fewer anticipated by the end of 2013. 

Wilmington Police will also be cracking down on distracted driving in coming months, according to Begonis.

"Distracted driving is a huge problem now - texting, driving or using your phone," Begonis said. "We'll be out in full force over the next couple months to let people know this is ill-advised behavior in a motor vehicle."

Begonis said he would be able to provide statistics on traffic safety initiatives aimed at distracted driving conducted by Wilmington Police next year as the program is still in early stages. 

Selectmen Chairman Michael McCoy thanked Begonis and the Wilmington Police Department as a member of the board, but also as a resident. 

"As a taxpayer, husband and father I want to thank you for all the work you do on the front lines," McCoy said.

Stick with Wilmington Patch for more from the Oct. 28 Selectmen meeting later this week.