The Park Forest Police Department reported issuing more than 130 citations and making several arrests during two recent traffic enforcement campaigns. These efforts took place in the weeks leading up to and during Super Bowl weekend, with funding provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
From January 19 through February 5, officers conducted an additional campaign focused on speeding violations. During this period, police dedicated 48 hours of overtime patrols to address excessive speed and other traffic offenses. Officers made 86 traffic stops and issued 109 citations. Of these, 51 were for speeding, five for seat belt violations, two for distracted driving, and 51 for other traffic-related offenses. Five individuals were arrested for license violations, while one person was arrested on a criminal matter not related to traffic enforcement.
Deputy Chief Kristopher Vallow stated that the campaign aimed to increase visibility on local roads and target behaviors linked to crashes. “Speeding continues to be one of the leading factors in serious and fatal crashes,” Vallow said. “By dedicating additional patrol hours, we are sending a clear message that unsafe driving will not be ignored in Park Forest.”
Vallow also noted that winter weather can make speeding even riskier. “When you combine excessive speed with unpredictable weather and road conditions, the risk increases significantly,” he said. “These enforcement efforts are about preventing injuries before they happen.”
Following this effort, the department shifted its focus to impaired driving as part of its Super Bowl enforcement campaign from February 6 through February 9. This initiative coincided with increased gatherings and alcohol consumption associated with the event.
During this time, officers spent over 12 hours on additional patrols, conducting 18 traffic stops and issuing 22 citations: one for a seat belt violation, two for speeding, and 18 for other infractions. Police also made one arrest for driving without a valid license and another arrest related to fleeing and eluding law enforcement.
“The Super Bowl is a time when many people gather with friends and family, and unfortunately, that can sometimes include impaired driving,” Vallow said. “Our goal is not just enforcement, but deterrence. We want people to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, or use a rideshare service.”
Vallow added that high-visibility enforcement would continue during major holidays and community events in Park Forest. “These campaigns are about keeping our roads safe for everyone — drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike,” he said. “We would much rather see someone make a safe choice than have to respond to a preventable crash.”
The next planned safety initiative will focus on impaired driving ahead of St. Patrick’s Day from March 13 through March 23.
Park Forest operates under a council-manager government structure featuring a mayor and six trustees as its governing body according to its official website. The village supports community health programs as well as sustainability initiatives recognized at various levels here. Efforts also include educational opportunities such as the Civic Leadership Academy designed to address local issues on their site.
