Virginia State Police Launch Operation DISSrupt on Interstate 64

Traffic enforcement and safety initiative targets distracted, impaired, speeding, and seatbelt violations

Feb. 5, 2026 at 5:15am

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The Virginia State Police are conducting a two-day traffic enforcement and safety campaign called Operation DISSrupt on Interstate 64 across the commonwealth. The operation focuses on cracking down on distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and seatbelt violations in an effort to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes on the interstate.

Why it matters

Virginia has seen a decrease in traffic fatalities in recent years, but preliminary data shows an increase in roadway deaths so far in 2026, including a spike in pedestrian fatalities. Operation DISSrupt aims to build on past safety successes and further improve safety on I-64 and other major interstates in the state.

The details

During Operation DISSrupt, additional Virginia State Police troopers will be patrolling I-64 and focusing enforcement efforts on four key driving behaviors: distracted driving (including prohibitions on holding personal devices), impaired driving, speeding, and seatbelt compliance. The operation's goal is to achieve zero fatal crashes during the enforcement period and reduce the total number of crashes on I-64 by 10% for the year.

  • Operation DISSrupt will take place on February 5-6, 2026.
  • So far in 2026, there have been 46 traffic fatalities on Virginia roadways and 13 pedestrian fatalities between January 1 and February 3.

The players

Virginia State Police

The state law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling Virginia's roadways and enforcing traffic laws.

Captain David Edwards

Commander of the Virginia State Police Salem Field Division.

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What they’re saying

“According to preliminary data, Virginia saw a decrease in traffic fatalities in 2025. We want that trend to continue, and by being visible, troopers remind people of the safety measures they need to take do to remain safe while driving.”

— Captain David Edwards, Commander, Virginia State Police Salem Field Division

What’s next

In the coming months, Operation DISSrupt will also be conducted on Interstate 95, Interstate 81, and Interstate 66 across Virginia.

The takeaway

This enforcement campaign highlights the ongoing efforts by Virginia State Police to improve roadway safety and reduce fatal and serious crashes through targeted education and enforcement of key driving behaviors like distraction, impairment, speeding, and seatbelt use.