NORWICH – The increased police presence in the Norwich area was obvious this week as several New York State troopers participated in the statewide push for seatbelt safety, while many others continued to investigate a recent homicide.

Traffic Supervisor Sgt. John Beno, of the New York State Police in Sidney, said a Buckle Up New York campaign began Monday and was unrelated to the recent Norwich homicide.

“It is complete coincidence, but I guess it’s nice to have the officers in the area if we need them, but it wasn’t planned that way,” said State Police Captain Mark A. Lester, who is leading the murder investigation.

At around 3:15 p.m. Tuesday, six state patrol vehicles set up along a 300-yard stretch state on Rt. 12 in Norwich and pulled over dozens of motorists. Beno said troopers targeted mainly commercial vehicles, but stopped any motorist not wearing a seat belt. Police issued 33 tickets in the enforcement push that was set up just south of the City of Norwich over a six-hour period, he said.

Police also continued the stops Wednesday and will continue the program through Dec. 1.

Meanwhile, police are continuing their investigation into the shooting death of William E. Lee, 61, who was found dead at 1:53 p.m. last Thursday inside his home on state Rt. 23 in the Town of Norwich.