Law enforcement agencies kick off 'Operation Safety Pass'

SUGAR LAND, TX (KTRK) -- Law enforcement agencies from across Southeast Texas gathered in front of the Sugar Land Police Department Monday morning. They kicked off "Operation Safety Pass" by delivering a clear message to move over for emergency responders.

They also promised to be out in full force this week, driving home the message.

Deputies, troopers, and police officers said far too often law enforcement is killed because people are not courteous.

Of the many agencies participating, Missouri City experienced a problem just last week. On Friday, Officer Kenneth Lewis jumped off a bridge on Highway 6 instead of being hit by a suspected drunk driver. He was pulled over for a traffic stop to enforce the "Move Over" law.

Further proof said prosecutor Warren Diepraam about how real this issue is out on the roadways.

"He had to do what he had to do to try and save his life. Somebody being hit by a vehicle moving 50, 60, 70 MPH is like being shot out of a cannon into a brick wall," said Diepraam. "That officer made a choice that thankfully saved his life."

The law carries with it potential fines of up to $2,000 for repeat offenders.