September 30, 2002

East Lansing - The Michigan State Police, Motor Carrier Division has been awarded a $152,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (USDOT/FMCSA) to provide increased coverage at international ports of entry to screen commercial motor vehicles.

The majority of the grant will be used to pay overtime for motor carrier officers working at the international ports of entry, such as the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit, the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron and the International Bridge in Sault Ste. Marie. The grant will also fund the purchase of 24 portable infrared laser temperature gauges, two explosive/chemical detectors, and four in-car LEIN computers.

The infrared temperature gauges are used to detect defective brakes, as well as hidden compartments used for contraband (i.e., narcotics, guns, and explosives). The explosive/chemical detectors are used to detect illegal explosives, chemicals, and narcotics. The in-car computers are used to check driver’s licenses, registration plates, and VIN numbers.

"This grant will allow the Motor Carrier Division to better equip and deploy our personnel to ensure the safety of our borders and the citizens of Michigan," said Capt. Robert R. Powers, commander of the Motor Carrier Division.

Questions regarding the new regulation should be directed to Insp. Chuck Culton, Michigan State Police, Motor Carrier Division, at 517-336-6479.