Milwaukee Sheriff Will Now 'Video Laser' Speeders

MILWAUKEE COUNTY, WI — Earlier this week, Sheriff Richard Schmidt demonstrated for the media the new video lasers used for the saturation speed patrols.

Sheriff's officials say the video allows deputies to obtain screenshots of the license plate and pinpoint speeds from a distance of about 1,000 feet up to a maximum distance of 3,000 feet.

Sheriff Schmidt implemented the saturation patrols initiative across all shifts in September.

Sheriff Schmidt said in a prepared statement: “New technology and dedicated deputies are putting the brakes on reckless drivers. The incredible number of citations issued indicates that the message of safe driving stills needs to resonate with the non-compliant. Slow Down-Drive Sober-Stay Alive.”

Last week alone, from July 5 through July 11, deputies issued 243 speeding tickets. Here is how they broke down:

11-15 mph over: 23

16-19 mph over: 67

20-24 mph over: 72

25-29 mph over: 35

30-34 mph over: 6

35-39 mph over: 1

40-44 mph over: 1

Unreasonable/Imprudent Speed: 38

Schmidt says that the focus of the saturation patrols is to reduce crashes, serious injury and property damage, and is not based on generating revenue. Construction zone safety is also compromised by speeding, reckless drivers, he said.

Get Patched In:
Stay up-to-date with Metro Milwaukee News with Patch! There are many ways for you to connect and stay in touch: Newsletters and E-Mail Alerts | Facebook | Twitter

Submitted Photo