Troopers Identify 67 Violations and Arrest an Operator Traveling More Than 120mph during Enforcement Effort

Hampton – On May 7, 2023, the New Hampshire State Police Special Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic enforcement initiative utilizing the State Police aircraft, identifying 67 motor vehicle violations on Interstate 95 in the Town of Hampton.

During the operation, troopers identified a total of 67 violations to include 6 vehicles traveling over 100mph and 24 vehicles traveling over 90mph.

The operation was conducted in response to the increasing number of traffic violations and crashes on New Hampshire highways. The use of State Police aircraft allowed troopers to effectively monitor and enforce traffic laws from above, resulting in a significant reduction in reckless driving and other dangerous behaviors.

During today's enforcement effort, a 2009 Honda CBR600 operated by Salim Castro, Age: 19, Revere, MA, was originally clocked at 94mph. When Lieutenant Christopher Storm attempted to stop Castro, he then fled, traveling more than 120mph. Lieutenant Storm directed the State Police aircraft to follow the motorcycle and Castro continued onto Route 101 West.

Trooper Thomas Lombardi in the State Police aircraft monitored Castro for several miles until he exited Route 101 at exit 8. Trooper Lombardi informed troopers that Castro had entered the parking lot of New England Dragway, where a large event was taking place. Trooper Lombardi directed Troopers and Officers from the Brentwood and Epping Police Departments to Castro, where he was taken into custody.

Castro was brought to the Epping Police Department where he was charged with Reckless Driving, Reckless Conduct, Disobeying an Officer, Resisting Arrested, Operating without a Motorcycle Endorsement, Unregistered Motor Vehicle and Failure to Display Registration. He was released and is due to appear in the 10th Circuit Court, Brentwood District on June 27, 2023, at 1:00 p.m.

The New Hampshire State Police Special Enforcement Unit is a specialized unit that focuses on enforcing traffic laws, promoting highway safety, and reducing the number of crashes on New Hampshire highways. The unit is equipped with the latest technology and tools to effectively monitor and enforce traffic laws, including the State Police aircraft.

The success of this recent traffic enforcement operation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the New Hampshire State Police Special Enforcement Unit. The unit will continue to conduct similar operations in the future to ensure the safety of all citizens on New Hampshire highways.