Total Texting-While-Driving Tickets In Point Boro, Point Beach

Law enforcement officers from throughout New Jersey cracked down on distracted drivers in April as part of New Jersey's 'UDrive. UText. UPay." campaign. Hundreds were ticketed in Point Pleasant Boro and Point Pleasant Beach.

Point Pleasant Boro police issued a total of 171 citations to violators during the recent crackdown on texting-while-driving. Point Pleasant Beach issued 183 motor vehicle summonses.

"Texting and driving is an increasing risk on our roads, and police officers used this enforcement effort to get the message out about the dangers of this risky behavior," said Capt. Robert Lokerson. "We all know that texting while driving is wrong, but too many drivers are doing it anyway. Hopefully now, drivers understand the gravity of the problem, and understand if you drive and text, you'll pay."

The effort began April 1 and ran through April 21, a law enforcement initiative targeting motorists who engage in dangerous distracted-driving behaviors such as talking on hand-held cell phones and sending text messages while driving, according to New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety.

A number of sheriff's departments at the county levels, such as Burlington, Essex, Hudson, Passaic and Somerset counties, also received funding, as did the Palisades Interstate Parkway and the Morris County Park Police Department.

"Distracted driving kills too many people for us to ignore the acts and pretend it's ok. It is never acceptable to text and drive," Lokerson said.

South Brunswick police photo