(COLDWATER) – Effective April 1, 24 hour road patrol is back in Branch County.

Sheriff Fred Blankenship announced the restoration of 24 hour road patrol coverage by his office.

In 2013, due to budget cuts, the Sheriff’s Road Patrol budget was significantly reduced, eliminating the ability to provide overnight patrols. However, Blankenship explains how the road patrol was brought back. LINKC.

The Branch County Commission approved having 24 hour road patrol coverage in 2023, and Blankenship explains why it took until now to get it going. LINKD.

Blankenship says this is a significant step forward for the safety of the community. He says by reinstating 24 hour patrol coverage, it ensures that every Branch County resident has the protection and peace of mind they deserve, no matter the time of day or night.