From School Bus, Police Catch Eagan's Most Distracted Drivers

EAGAN, MN — Operation "busted by the bus" took place in Eagan Wednesday afternoon, catching the city's most distracted drivers. Busted by the Bus is a special enforcement operation where police officers board a school bus and look for motorists violating the law.

On Sept. 25, 15 squad cars from agencies across Dakota County participated in the operation.

Officers witnessed unsafe behavior including a driver watching CNN behind the wheel and one woman who was spotted taking a selfie with her dog while driving. Officers also noted that many drivers took special care while near the bus and utilized hands free devices.

During the operation, officers and deputies made 152 traffic stops over a five hour period, according to a news release. No children were on the bus, and no fake stops were made to attempt to catch stop arm violators

However, several citations were issued for distracted driving, seat belt use, and other violations during the operation Wednesday.

"School buses carry some of our most precious cargo and we will continue to promote school bus safety through traffic enforcement and public service announcements," Eagan police said in a statement. "'Busted by the Bus'" has made a positive impact in our community and we expect to conduct future operations."