​ST. PAUL — The Minnesota State Patrol's special enforcement efforts this year helped stop street racing and other deadly driving behaviors, including speeding, distracted driving, seat belt use and impaired driving. Troopers and partner agencies worked together throughout the spring, summer and fall on these special operations and high-visibility patrols.

Law enforcement air and ground teams stopped thousands of lawbreakers, resulting in fewer incidents of street racers taking over roadways.

 “We do the work that we do because we're passionate about keeping our roads safe and saving lives," said Col. Matt Langer, chief of the Minnesota State Patrol. “The extra enforcement is working. The State Patrol has responded to 25 percent fewer deadly crashes than at this time last year. It shows our commitment to our mission is making a difference."​

2023 State Patrol results

	Street racing	HEAT	Project 20(23)
Total stops	1,133	46,806	3,123
Total citations	1,312	20,907	2,101
Speed contacts	379	38,775	2,227
People arrested	45	302	42
DWI arrests	19	152	32

2022 State Patrol results

	Street racing	HEAT	Project 20(23)
Total stops	1,488	22,946	3,715
Total citations	985	9,590	2,489
Speed contacts	591	18,398	2,762
People arrested	145	288	83
DWI arrests	46	150	61

Street racing

Street racing enforcement efforts first began in the summer of 2021. Since then, the State Patrol and partner agencies have dedicated consistent resources and have taken a zero-tolerance approach on this dangerous activity. When enforcement efforts first began, street takeover events where groups block intersections and parking lots would have upwards of 250 vehicles. Now those events draw in fewer than 20 vehicles.

HEAT

For a second year, troopers conducted Highway Enforcement for Aggressive Traffic (HEAT) patrols across the state. During a 10-day period, troopers worked shifts dedicated to speed enforcement. In addition to troopers on the freeway, the State Patrol utilizes its aviation support to ensure drivers fleeing traffic stops are located and held accountable.

Project 20(23)

Troopers worked in teams over several summer and fall weekends conducting high intensity patrols in different areas of the state. They focused on the deadliest traffic violations: speed, lack of seat belt use, distraction and impairment.

“We are proud of the work we do, but we can't do it alone," said Langer. Thank you to all of our troopers and partner agencies for their hard work and dedication to keeping Minnesota roads safe." 

About the Minnesota Department of Public Safety

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety (DPS) comprises 10 divisions where 2,100 employees operate programs in the areas of law enforcement, crime victim assistance, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, emergency communications, fire safety, pipeline safety, driver licensing, vehicle registration and emergency management. DPS activity is anchored by three core principles: education, enforcement and prevention.

About the Minnesota State Patrol 

Nearly 600 Minnesota State Patrol troopers are the foundation of the agency that works to provide a safe environment on Minnesota's roads by assisting motorists, taking enforcement action and educating drivers about traffic safety issues. In addition to road safety activities, troopers conduct flight patrols, search and rescue missions and assist other law enforcement agencies.