Las Cruces Police issued 126 citations while conducting a traffic enforcement operation Thursday on University Avenue.
The traffic operation was held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, April 4, along University Avenue between El Paseo Road and Espina Street.
Officers issued 60 citations to motorists using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle, 15 to drivers who failed to provide proof of insurance, 13 for not using a seat belt, 10 for driving on an expired license plate and seven for driving without a license.
Another seven citations were issued to drivers who failed to yield for a pedestrian in a marked crosswalk. The remaining citations were for various other traffic offenses.
One motorist was issued a citation for driving on a suspended or revoked driver’s license. The driver was also arrested on the misdemeanor and his vehicle was seized in accordance with City’s DWI forfeiture program.
The forfeiture program, which took affect in February 2005, allows the city to seize a vehicle following a second or subsequent DWI offense, which can include driving with a suspended or revoked license related to a DWI.
Motorists are reminded that Las Cruces’ cell phone 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. Dialing, texting or otherwise manipulating an electronic device while driving is not considered lawful or safe.
Engaging in a conversation on a cell phone is permitted within city limits only if the driver is utilizing a hands-free device and its use does not interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle.
The Las Cruces Police Department will conduct additional traffic enforcement operations throughout the spring and summer.