Will County Gazette

The Park Forest Police Department reported that officers issued 114 citations during their Fourth of July "Click It or Ticket" campaign. The enforcement period took place from June 20 to July 7, including Independence Day, as part of a statewide initiative.

Officers in Park Forest spent an additional 53.25 hours focusing on dangerous driving behaviors, particularly seat belt compliance and other moving violations. Throughout the campaign, they conducted 103 traffic stops leading to the issuance of 114 citations. Among these were 40 for seat belt violations and one for improper child restraint.

Deputy Chief Kristopher Vallow emphasized the importance of seat belt use: “We want people to understand that seat belts save lives. There’s no excuse for not buckling up—doing so takes just seconds and can prevent serious injury or death in a crash.”

The campaign also resulted in 26 speeding citations and eight tickets related to distracted driving due to cell phone use. Additionally, one driver was arrested for driving under the influence.

Officers cited or arrested eight drivers for license violations, mainly for driving on a suspended license or operating a vehicle without having obtained a license. One more criminal arrest occurred along with 39 citations for various unspecified offenses.

“These numbers reflect our department’s commitment to making Park Forest’s roads safer for everyone,” Vallow stated. “Enforcement campaigns like this allow us to directly address behaviors that put lives at risk—whether it’s speeding, driving impaired, or texting behind the wheel.”

The “Click It or Ticket” initiative is part of a broader traffic safety campaign funded by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), which aims to reduce serious injuries and fatalities by promoting safer driving habits and enforcing seat belt laws.

Park Forest Police regularly engage in IDOT traffic enforcement programs throughout the year with a focus on impaired driving, speed, and occupant protection. Vallow added, “Our goal isn’t to write tickets—it’s to prevent tragedy. When drivers make smart, safe choices, everyone benefits.”