(Oct. 2014) New York State Police Troop T and citizen volunteers will conduct their 38th annual “Pumpkin Patrol” aimed at preventing Halloween pranks and protecting motorists along the New York State Thruway on Oct. 30 and 31, the New York State Thruway Authority announced.
Patrols will consist of Troop T Troopers, who patrol the Thruway exclusively, as well as local citizen band radio clubs, and amateur radio operators.
Volunteers assisting Troop T will monitor Thruway overpasses and report any unusual activity to State Police or local law enforcement. 15 organizations from 18 counties have volunteered to participate in this year’s efforts. Troopers from Troop T will also keep watch for other violations including speeding, driving while intoxicated, and operating mobile electronic devices while driving.
“Troopers will be out in full force monitoring any unusual activity, plus patrolling roads, bridges, and exits to help minimize any potential hazards to motorists,” said State Police Troop T Public Information Officer Trooper Matthew Izbicki. “As part of this effort, Troop T will also patrol for intoxicated drivers, and conduct seat belt and cell phone checks.”
The Pumpkin Patrol was initiated as a volunteer effort in 1976 by Katherine St. Jacques in Fort Johnson, Montgomery County. Ms. St. Jacques was talking to a truck driver on her citizens band radio when the windshield of his vehicle was struck by an object thrown from an overpass. The driver sustained injuries from the broken glass of his windshield. St. Jacques and two companions decided to stand watch on the three over passes that crossed the Thruway in the Fort Johnson area.
The State Police assumed control of the Pumpkin Patrol in 1990 as part of the State Police crime prevention effort. More than 300 volunteers and 15 organizations will participate in this year’s effort.