Traffic is divided into four sections: Special
Traffic Investigation Squad (STIS), Motorcycle Squad (Motors),
DUI, Special Traffic Enforcement Unit (STEU) and Police Service Technicians (PSTs).
2006 Traffic Stats
Calls: 30,781
Details: 7,919
Accidents: 10,270
Total Citations: 654,053
Arrests: 395
During 2006, there were 115 fatalities in the
Memphis area; 7 fatalities were related to drunk driving. Of those
killed, 45 were drivers, 28 were passengers, 18 were pedestrians,
and one was killed on a bicycle. The remaining fatalities were on
motorcycles with 20 motorcycle drivers and 3 motorcycle passengers
killed in 2006.
STIS
Special Traffic Investigations Squad (STIS) is
responsible for investigating crashes involving
fatalities or serious critical injuries. STIS is also responsible
for investigating crashes involving
citizens over the age of 70. During 2006, the
officers assigned to STIS handled 115 fatal crashes with 17 of those
fatal crashes occurring on the interstate system. STIS officers also
investigated 65 critical injury crashes.
Motors
The primary function of Motors is the enforcement
of traffic laws, the investigation of crashes and the participation
in special events. Motors, as well as, other members of the Traffic
Division, are
periodically assigned as traffic control for major motion pictures filmed in Memphis which have included three John Grisham films: “The
Firm”, “The Client”, and
“The Rainmaker” and the Tom Hank’s film “Castaway”. Most recently
the Motorcycle Squad assisted with the filming of the films “21
Grams”, "Hustle and Flow" and "Black Snake Moan".
Motors Officers
utilize 9 Kawaski and 23 Harley Davidson motorcycles.
DUI
This Unit is comprised of officers from the Memphis Police
Department who are specially trained in the testing of drivers
suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
During 2006, the DUI Unit made 2,699 arrests while
processing 2,884 individuals. DUI Breathalyzer Tests were
administered to 1,437 and refused by 1,447. Patrol activities
accounted for 1,849 tests and the rest - 1,035 tests - were the
results of crash calls.
STEU
The Special Traffic Enforcement Unit's (STEU) primary
responsibility is enforcement of traffic laws, primarily
on the interstate system. The STEU officers handle crashes, direct
traffic, assist in escorting dignitaries, assist STIS in fatal and
critical crash investigations, and other duties as assigned.
PST
Police Service Technician (PST) is an entry level
position of the Memphis Police Department. PSTs
primarily handle crash investigations, issue non-moving traffic
citations, recover stolen vehicles, and act as support personnel.
They do not carry weapons or respond to crime scenes unless called
to do so in a traffic enforcement capacity. The program allows an individual the
opportunity to begin a career with the Department, and, at the same
time, acquire two years of college which is a minimum requirement
for police recruits.
This is not a permanent position with the
Department.
