By TOM LATEK, Kentucky Today

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) - The Kentucky State Police (KSP) are taking part in a multi-state initiative this week, which is aimed at reducing crime and keeping illegal firearms out of local communities throughout the state.

Now through September 20, state troopers from Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia join forces for the latest installment of the "6-State Trooper Project."

Each of the 6-State Trooper Project's enforcement periods targets a specific traffic or criminal safety concern, according to the KSP. September's effort concentrates on criminal patrol operations, specifically on identifying illegal firearms carried by felons traveling on Kentucky roads. Troopers will use traffic enforcement to detect and disrupt illegal activity while also ensuring compliance with state and federal laws prohibiting certain individuals from carrying firearms.

Captain Tim Adams, commander of KSP Post 3 in Bowling Green, says the 6-State Trooper Project highlights the agency's ongoing commitment to local, state and national safety.

"By joining forces across state lines, we are able to work together to ensure our communities are safe," he stated. "It is all about protecting families and communities throughout the commonwealth and beyond."

The KSP says they are encouraging citizens to play a role in helping keep communities safe. If you see suspicious or illegal activity, contact your local KSP Post or call 911, in the event of an emergency.

By coordinating enforcement, agencies are able to share resources, intelligence and strategies to maximize their impact, according to the KSP. Multi-state partnerships like this initiative strengthen the collective fight against crime and help ensure Kentucky's roads and communities are safer for everyone.