Suffolk PD Issues 100s Of Traffic Violations In School Area Crackdown

YAPHANK, NY — Suffolk police issued over 430 violations for traffic infarctions and 315 moving violations, including speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield to pedestrians, in and around school zones during the county's Back-To-School Safe Driving Enforcement Initiative, department officials said Tuesday.

During the first two weeks of school, from Sept. 5 to September 19, police issued 142 speeding violations and 64 tickets for distracted driving, according to officials.

The department is continuing to use "high-visibility and enhanced patrols to further crackdown on dangerous drivers," officials said.

Officials said the department is asking residents to drive "with caution" around school buildings and to obey all traffic laws.

Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison said there is "no excuse for breaking the law," but he called it "especially egregious in areas where children are making their way to and from school."

“I was shocked to hear the results of this enforcement initiative and hope it serves as a reminder to Suffolk residents to always follow the rules of the road, especially when near school buildings," he said, adding, "It can help save a life."

County Executive Steve Bellone said that keeping Suffolk's children "safe is always a top priority and this includes their safety not only while they are in school, but while they are on their way to and from school."

“I want to thank the men and woman of the Suffolk County Police Department for their hard work ensuring that those who break the law by not following the rules of the road, putting a child’s life in danger, are held accountable," he said.