Operation “Save Lives” begins in Marion County today. Marion County Sheriff Jason Sandholt tells KNIA/KRLS News that Marion County was third in traffic deaths in Iowa in 2021, and his office and other agencies are increasing their efforts at traffic enforcement in an attempt to bring those numbers down.

The City of Pella and the Iowa State Patrol are also participating, beginning today, and Sandholdt says he‘s working with the cities of Melcher-Dallas, Knoxville, and Pleasantville to join the effort soon.

Officers will focus on enforcing all traffic laws, including speeding, texting while driving, and seat belt use. Sandholdt adds that he hopes drivers will heed this warning and slow down, and will follow all traffic laws.