Font ResizeLAS CRUCES - The Las Cruces Police Department's Wednesday afternoon traffic enforcement operation along Lohman Avenue netted 62 citations in just 90 minutes.
Of the 62 citations issued, 33 went to drivers who were using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle and 12 were for speeding. Six of the citations were issued for driving without proof of insurance and four were for failing to wear a seat belt. The remaining citations were issued for various traffic violations.
Wednesday's traffic enforcement operation began at 3 p.m. and was conducted on Lohman Avenue between Roadrunner Parkway and Foothills Road. LCPD will conduct similar traffic enforcement operations within city limits in the near future.
Las Cruces' cell phone ordinance went into effect Feb. 5 and carries a $56 fine plus a mandatory $36 court fee. The ordinance prohibits cell phone use while driving within city limits. The ban includes engaging in a phone call or creating, sending and reading text messages or e-mail while operating a motor vehicle. Searching for or dialing a phone number while driving is not considered safe or lawful. Engaging in a conversation on a cell phone is permitted within city limits only if the driver is utilizing a hands-free device and the use does not interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle.
