The Tonkawa Police Department has observed a significant increase in traffic violations at the Interstate-35 interchanges at both Fountain Road and at U.S. Highway-60. These traffic violations (such as speeding, merging, unlawful passing, failure to stop at stop signs, etc.) have been the prevalent factors in traffic accidents in those areas. First Responders have been dispatched to more vehicle accidents, in the noted areas, within the last few months than all of the collisions, last year, combined. Many of these accidents have involved semi-trucks and commercial vehicles. Citizens, visitors, and businesses have complained about increased traffic violations from vehicles and semi-trucks in these intersections and are thankful that there have not been any fatalities but continue to worry about ongoing traffic safety in the area. Tonkawa Police Department’s traffic enforcement resources, in these areas of our jurisdiction, are limited due to manpower, equipment, and everincreasing calls-for-service volume. The Tonkawa Police Department has deliberated with the Fort Oakland Police Department, which also has a vested interest in the areas with The Tonkawa Hotel & Casino, Tonkawa Travel Plaza, and The Hub Entertainment Center. The Fort Oakland Police Department has assisted our agency with a two-year traffic study in those areas to determine approximate times and frequency of increased traffic violations. Therefore, the Tonkawa Police Department has afforded the Fort Oakland Police Department “extended commission authority” to the agencies’ existing Cross-Commission/Deputization Agreement. This extension of commission powers will allow approved and sworn Fort Oakland Police Officers to conduct traffic enforcement at Interstate-35 & U.S. Highway-60 (Mile Marker 214) and Interstate-35 & Fountain Road (Mile Marker 211). Fort Oakland Police Officers will assist the Tonkawa Police Department in monitoring the area for traffic violators, conducting traffic stops, and issuance of citations if necessary. This Cross-Commission Agreement Extension of Authority is an implementation that is utilized by many Law Enforcement Agencies. Numerous Tribal Law Enforcement Agencies, statewide, assist Municipal Law Enforcement Agencies within their jurisdictions to increase safety standards. The Fort Oakland Police Officers will partner with Tonkawa Police Officers to act as a “force multiplier” to increase traffic safety awareness and enforcement. It is understood that this plan may take time for Tonkawa residents to become familiar with. However, it’s the intent to make the most of this partnership to increase safety and preserve life for residents, visitors, and employees of businesses within this great City of Tonkawa. We will accomplish this by vigilant traffic patrol efforts and visibility of a law enforcement presence within these areas. The Tonkawa Police Department and the Fort Oakland Police Department request that motorists monitor their speed, stop at stop signs, and follow traffic regulations posted in both areas. Stay Safe!
