Distracted Driving Enforcement

WRENTHAM POLICE NEWS RELEASE

 

Wrentham Police Department to Participate in Statewide Texting
Enforcement Crackdown

 

The Wrentham Police Department will join the 191 eligible Massachusetts law enforcement agencies in the national U Drive. U Text. U Pay. mobilization to crack down on motorists who text while driving.  The campaign, which combines traditional and innovative enforcement strategies, is funded by a federal grant administered through the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security’s Highway Safety Division (EOPSS/HSD) from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).  The mobilization begins April 10, 2015 and continues through May 1, 2015.  

 

“Driving and texting is illegal and irresponsible.  People who break our state’s texting law will be stopped and fined.  If you drive and text, you will pay,” said Lt. George Labonte.  

 

Texting while driving was outlawed in Massachusetts effective September 30, 2010.  Adult drivers who write, send, or read electronic messages or browse the Internet while driving face a $100 fine for a first offense – even if the vehicle is stopped in traffic!  Juvenile operators are entirely prohibited from using mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving, including to make phone calls.  The fine for a juvenile first offense is $100 and includes a 60 day license suspension and required completion of a driver attitudinal course. 

 

These costly violations underscore the danger inherent in the use of electronic devices while driving.  Nationally in 2013, there were 3,154 people killed and an estimated 424,000 people injured in motor vehicle crashes involv­ing distracted drivers.  

 

According to the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute’s 2012 “Teen Driver Distraction Study,” 25% of teens respond to a text message at least once every time they drive.  20% of teens and 10% of parents admit that they have multi-message text conversations while driving.

 

“It’s not that complicated: if you text and drive, we will see you, pull you over, and fine you.  We’re serious about enforcing texting laws and protecting the motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians who use our roadways” said Lt. Labonte.

Citizen's Police Academy

The Wrentham Police Department is pleased to announce the commencement of a Citizens Police Academy. The Academy will run from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm for seven consecutive Tuesday’s, beginning on Tuesday, May 19, 2015 and conclude on June 30, 2015. This informational academy will be held in the public safety training room, located on the main floor of the Public Safety building.

 

        The Citizen Police Academy is designed to familiarize citizens with the operation and function of the Wrentham Police Department. Classes will cover various topics such as Criminal Law, Patrol Procedures, Domestic Violence, Motor Vehicle Enforcement, Identity Theft, Emergency Communication Center, Court Procedures, and Use of Force.

 

        There is no charge to attend, however, you must be 18 years or older. The class is limited to 25 applicants. Applications may be picked up at the Wrentham Police Department, 89 South Street or email Lt. George Labonte at labonte@police.wrentham.ma.us  The application must be submitted or emailed to Lt. Labonte by Friday May 1, 2015. Preference will be given to Wrentham residents.