A catalytic converter might look like a dirty piece of pipe to many; however, thieves see green – as in cash – when they cut the part from the underside of a car. “It’s the precious metals, particularly platinum, that have made catalytic converter thefts something law enforcement around theContinue Reading
Many family gatherings and shopping trips are back on this year, which means criminals are back in action to steal gifts and money. “This time of year always brings concerns for safety and security,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “Distractions lingering from the pandemic and the holiday season couldContinue Reading
Koon’s Watch Rail Safety Week begins next week. The goal of this campaign is to raise awareness and promote education surrounding railroad rights-of-ways and grade crossings. The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department’s Traffic Division is once again participating in Operation Clear Track, coordinated by Amtrak and Operation Lifesaver, on September 21.Continue Reading
Koon’s Watch They’re our most precious cargo—are we securing them safely? Child Passenger Safety Week is later this month. It’s a time for law enforcement agencies across the nation and U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to share important information regarding the appropriate car seat for ourContinue Reading
Koon’s Watch Summer weather means more people out and about; more time to enjoy outdoor activities like walking. Whether it’s walking down a city block, a country road or a suburban sidewalk, everyone is a pedestrian at some point during the day. And like drivers, pedestrians have a responsibility toContinue Reading
Koon’s Watch Every day on roads across Lexington County, law enforcement officers and other first responders put their lives at risk in order to help save lives and keep people safe. Traffic-related incidents are the leading cause of death for on-duty law enforcement officers. We work in dangerous situations allContinue Reading
Koon’s Watch Places are opening up again, vacations are back on and you’re ready to head out of town. Before you do that, let’s take a moment to talk about vacation safety. Sure, it’s a lot of fun to share your adventurous vacation photos on social media. But, what ifContinue Reading
Koon’s Watch Sometimes it just seems so slow. Why are there limits? You’re late to work, late to school or to an important meeting. So, you speed a little bit to make up time. But, is it really worth it? After all, does an extra 10mph hurt anyone? The NationalContinue Reading
Koon’s Watch Warmer temperatures means more people are leaving the windows down in their vehicles and more people are leaving their cars running attended to cool off before their commutes. This equals multiple opportunities for thieves to get inside your vehicle and steal it. The best theft prevention method isContinue Reading
Koon’s Watch You’ve read it before in this space: Seat belts save lives. But let me give that statement some weight: Between 2015 and 2019, seat belts saved more than 69,000 lives. That means 69,000 seat belts prevented families from grieving the loss of their loved ones for decades toContinue Reading
Koon’s Watch May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and with warmer weather starting, you’ll likely see more motorcyclist on the roadways. I am writing to you this week to remind you how to share the road safely. In 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 5,014 motorcyclists were killed.Continue Reading