C.O. police plan enhanced patrol Friday on Hwy. 97 at Lava Butte

In cooperation with ODOT, Central Oregon law enforcement agencies, including Bend Police, Redmond Police, Black Butte Police, Oregon State Police and the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting an enhanced patrol Friday afternoon on Highway 97 near Lava Butte.

The operation is planned from noon to 4 p.m., at a time when many are traveling into or out of town for the Fourth of July weekend, said Bend police Sgt. Eric Hagan.

While the operation was already planned, Hagan said, “With the dramatic increase in crashes in the region there will be focus on speed and distracted driving. Our goal is to make traveling on Central Oregon highways safer.”

He also said, “Central Oregon law enforcement would like to remind drivers to slow down and please give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination over the Fourth of July weekend.”