For Immediate Release
| PR #: | 1500048 |
| Date Issued: | Apr 21, 2015 - 12:13pm |
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Sheriff's Office cites 135 drivers for cellphone use and 244 for speeding during latest Joining Forces Distracted Driving campaign |
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| CONTACT: | Bob Harmon Washoe County Sheriff's Office Office 775-785-6235 Cell 775-722-5517 |
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office cited 135 drivers for cellphone use and 244 for speeding during a recent Joining Forces distracted driving awareness campaign aimed at increasing public safety by reducing the number of accidents and injuries caused by distracted driving.
From March 28 through April 13, 2015, the Sheriff's Office joined the Reno Police Department, Sparks Police Department and Nevada Highway Patrol for a high-intensity traffic enforcement campaign focusing on distracted driving violations.
The following results are from the Sheriff's Office portion of this campaign:
Sheriff's Office patrol staff assigned to this Distracted Driving Campaign initiated a total of 470 traffic stops. Although a driver may be stopped for one violation, several other violations may be observed during the subsequent investigation making it possible that a driver may be issued citations for numerous violations. The total number of violations cited and warnings issued during this event was 603.
Of those 603 citations, 135 were issued for cell phone use. Other violations cited by the Sheriff's Office include:
244 speeding violations
63 for failure to show proof of insurance
41 driver's license related violations
34 motor vehicle registration violations
8 vehicle equipment violations
5 violations for failing to yield the right of way
10 violations for running a red light
3 seatbelt violations
10 all other citations
45 warnings
In addition, Deputies arrested two people on drug charges and three on fugitive charges.
The Sheriff's Office participation in this Joining Forces distracted driving awareness and enforcement campaign was made possible by grant funding received from the Nevada Department of Public Safety/Office of Traffic Safety.
Joining Forces is a multi-jurisdictional law enforcement program that promotes statewide enforcement in the areas of: DUI, distracted driving, seat belt, and speed and pedestrian safety. The goal of these enforcement campaigns is to save lives by increasing public awareness about the dangers of making poor choices while driving.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.