Las Cruces Police issued 61 citations Wednesday and made two arrests during a traffic enforcement operation along Lohman Avenue.
Wednesday’s traffic operation was conducted from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. along the westbound lanes of Lohman Avenue near Walton Boulevard.
The vast majority of citations – 39 tickets – were given to drivers using a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. A Las Cruces ordinance prohibits cell phone use while driving within city limits.
Police also issued eight citations to motorists not using a seat belt, seven to drivers who did not have proof of liability insurance and four for not having a valid driver’s license. The remaining citations issued were for miscellaneous driving infractions.
While conducting the traffic enforcement operation officers arrested one individual on an outstanding felony warrant for aggravated assault. Another person was placed under arrest following a shoplifting at a local store while another received a criminal citation for involvement in the same incident.
Las Cruces’ cell phone ordinance prohibits 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 plans additional traffic enforcement operations throughout the summer.