ROUTINE TRAFFIC STOPS KEY TO CATCHING CRIMMINALS

Just 90 minutes after the 1995 bombing of the federal building in
Oklahoma City, Timothy McVeigh was arrested - on a routine traffic
stop for a missing license plate.

The prospect that a minor driving offense, such as a burned-out
headlight or loud vehicle exhaust, can land more criminals behind
bars is the reason for a rejuvenated highway enforcement program in
Wisconsin through the State Patrol and the federal Department of
Homeland Security.

"We've stepped up our efforts and have put an emphasis on really
looking beyond the traffic stop," said State Patrol Sgt. Paul Matl.

Such as being alert for suspicious behavior and vehicle alterations
or possible hidden compartments that could indicate a more serious
offense, according to the state patrol.

"(Troopers and inspectors) also are aware of subtle signs that an
occupant of a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation may be involved
in drug dealing, weapons smuggling or other crimes," said state
patrol Superintendent David Collins.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration estimated 40 percent of all
U.S. drug arrests began as traffic stops.

The state patrol intensified the highway enforcement program, and in
2005 made more than 1,200 arrests for controlled substances from
traffic stops. About 25 kilos of marijuana, three pounds of cocaine,
a pound of heroin and $200,000 cash were confiscated in traffic stops
on state highways, the state patrol reported.

As part of the program, the state patrol teamed with local law
enforcement agencies for two days in June 2005 on Interstate 90-94 in
La Crosse, Monroe and Jackson counties. The result was 378 traffic
stops that resulted in more than 30 drug arrests and five other
criminal arrests, according to the state patrol.

Collins said the state's highways are routes for drugs, weapons and
other contraband moving between Chicago, Milwaukee and Minneapolis.

Since Homeland Security is involved, officers also are looking for
indications of possible terrorist activities, Collins said.

"Besides drugs, our troopers and inspectors are trained to detect
illegally transported explosives, firearms and hazardous materials
that could be used in terrorist attacks around the country," Collins said.