Norman Police Prevent Tragedy Through Operation Cadence

With the holiday weekend in full swing, Norman police are taking a stand against impaired driving through Operation Cadence.

Police say Labor Day is one of the deadliest weekends on Oklahoma roads, with some drivers choosing to take the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

That is what led to the death of 8-year-old Cadence Gordon three years ago, and they hope to put a stop to it before tragedy strikes again.

Christina Francis Bautista said her daughter Cadence was a shining light. On the third anniversary of her death, Bautista is still grieving, but said that light can now shine on through Operation Cadence.

“I’m just so happy to be a part of it and that my daughter can help save lives too hopefully,” Bautista said.

A woman under the influence of Xanax drove head on into the car Cadence was riding in with her mom and aunt. She is now serving 23 years in prison.

Norman police started Cadence's campaign to encourage others to find a designated driver before they start celebrating for the holiday, saying it can be even more dangerous when people are on vacation and spending more time in the sun.

“You get dehydration along with that. You get people that when they start drinking earlier in the day then they choose not to eat as much, so all of that contributes,” Norman police Lt. Jeff Robertson said.

The first Operation Cadence on Fourth of July resulted in two arrests. With no fatalities, police considered it a complete success.

With help from a state grant, the plan is now to make Operation Cadence standard protocol for every holiday to come.

“I just hope everyone stays safe and has fun and get to be surrounded by loved ones and that you never take a moment for granted,” Bautista said.

Bautista and Norman police would like other law enforcement agencies to join in the Operation Cadence movement for future holiday weekends, protecting even more lives and keeping Cadence's spirit alive.