Specialty Impaired Driving Enforcement Training Held in Memory of State Representative Mike Clampitt

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office

Press Release

Cherokee County, NC — Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood and Swain County Sheriff Brian Kirkland, in coordination with the Western North Carolina DWI Task Force, are sponsoring a week-long specialty impaired driving enforcement training designed to enhance the ability of law enforcement officers across Western North Carolina to detect and apprehend impaired drivers.

The training began Tuesday and will continue through Friday, bringing together law enforcement officers and agencies from throughout the region for specialized instruction focused on impaired driving enforcement and highway safety.

This year's training is being conducted in memory of North Carolina State Representative Mike Clampitt, who passed away earlier this year. Representative Clampitt was a strong and longstanding advocate for highway safety, public safety, and the men and women who work to protect the citizens of North Carolina.

“Representative Mike Clampitt was a true champion for highway safety and public safety,” said Cherokee County Sheriff Chris Wood. “It is fitting that we dedicate this training to his memory and to the causes he worked so hard to advance. Every impaired driver we take off the road has the potential to prevent a tragedy, and the knowledge and skills gained through this training will directly contribute to making our highways safer.”

Swain County Sheriff Brian Kirkland echoed those sentiments. “Mike Clampitt understood the importance of supporting law enforcement and doing everything possible to make our roads safer,” said Sheriff Kirkland. “This training is a meaningful way to honor his legacy while continuing the work he believed in. We are proud to partner with the Western North Carolina DWI Task Force and agencies from across the region in this important effort.”

The kickoff for the training was attended by numerous law enforcement officials, including Sheriff Wood, Sheriff Kirkland, Major Randy Deaton of the North Carolina Highway Patrol, First Sergeant Aaron Ammons of the North Carolina Highway Patrol, and Sergeant Brody Crawford of the North Carolina Highway Patrol.

The participation of agencies from throughout Western North Carolina underscores the importance of regional cooperation in combating impaired driving. Officers participating in the training will receive specialized instruction intended to strengthen their enforcement capabilities and further their understanding of impaired driving investigations.

The Western North Carolina DWI Task Force and participating agencies remain committed to reducing impaired driving-related crashes, injuries, and fatalities throughout the region.

“Public safety is a shared responsibility, and partnerships like this allow us to combine our resources, experience, and expertise for the benefit of everyone traveling on our highways,” Sheriff Wood said. “We are honored to dedicate this week's training to Representative Clampitt and to continue his commitment to protecting the people of North Carolina.”