MONTGOMERY, AL- Gov. Robert Bentley has awarded nine grants to support the "Click It or Ticket" traffic safety campaign now underway. The effort continues over the Memorial Day weekend through Sunday, June 2.

Law enforcement agencies across the state are working overtime to enforce Alabama's seat belt laws and remove dangerous drivers from the roadways as part of the enforcement campaign. The grants, totaling $200,000, pay overtime for officers to conduct seat-belt safety checkpoints and extra patrols in areas where a high number of vehicle crashes have occurred.

Jim Byard Jr., director of the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, said the goal of the campaign is to save lives and reduce injuries. "The extra patrols and increased visibility of law enforcement officers should remind motorists that seat belts and safe driving are especially critical during major holidays," Byard said.

TALLAPOOSA CO., AL (WSFA)- Authorities say seven people have been arrested in connection with a four month long narcotics investigation that spanned four counties. 

The ABC Statewide Drug Task Force, the Tallapoosa County Narcotics Task Force, the Tallassee Police Department and the Auburn Police Department all conducted numerous hours of surveillance during a four month investigation leading up to the arrests.

Search warrants resulted in the seizure of approximately one pound of methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $46,000 and around two pounds of marijuana with a $5,600 street value. 

Seven people were arrested as part of this investigation. Police believe additional arrests are pending.

At this time the names of those arrested are being withheld due to the continuing investigation. 

Copyright 2013 WSFA 12 News.  All rights reserved.

Governor Robert Bentley recently proclaimed May 12-18 as Prevention Week in Alabama, coinciding with the National Prevention Week observance. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, NPW is dedicated to increasing awareness of, and action around, substance abuse and mental health issues. It serves to promote prevention efforts, provide education about behavioral health and strengthen community partnerships.

This year's theme, "Your voice. Your choice. Make a difference.," emphasizes that the prevention of substance abuse and promotion of mental health starts with the choices people make in their own lives.

Dr. Maranda Brown, director of the Office of Prevention Services in ADMH’s Division of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, says, “The Office of Prevention Services is extremely excited to celebrate the 2nd annual NPW observance.