The concept of, “new boss, same as the old boss” is good news for Lawrence County and all of Ohio as it pertains to the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Col. Paul Pride, the OSHP’s new superintendent, recently spoke candidly about maintaining the patrol’s dual focus to help stop crime as well as keep the roadways safe for motorists.

For many years the focus was almost solely on traffic violations, but that has changed in recent years. The patrol is focusing on catching drug traffickers and other lawbreakers beyond just those who are speeding or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Troopers have made more than 397,000 enforcement stops this year, up from about 377,000 at the same time in 2012, and they’ve logged double-digit percentage increases in the number of drug violations, weapons violations and felony arrests, according to AP reports.

This has also proven to be effective here in our county. As mobile meth labs, drug running from pill mills and other illicit activities have increased exponentially, so too must the enforcement and emphasis on stopping criminals.

The state highway patrol has certainly seemed to have increased its presence in Ironton and Lawrence County in recent years. Here’s a tip for anyone who doesn’t like that: Don’t break the law and it won’t matter.

That may sound oversimplified but it truly is that basic.

More law enforcement efforts — regardless of what agency is doing it — will make our community a safer place.