Bend police conduct another cellphone crackdown

For the second time in two weeks, the Bend Police Department conducted a focused enforcement for distracted driving on Thursday, issuing 24 tickets and 11 warnings for driving while using a cellphone.

“Being committed to ensuring the safety of the community by making roadways safer, the Bend Police spent two hours on the most recent operation.,” Lt. Clint Burleigh said.

This enforcement again was focused on Southeast Ninth Street and Wilson Avenue, Burleigh said,.

The enforcement was conducted in a similar fashion as the previous Aug. 31 detail, focusing on drivers who were using their mobile communication devices. Last time, 46 tickets were handed out.

This time:

Violation Citation

Unlawful use of a mobile communication device 24

Driving While Suspended 1

No operator’s license 1

Driving uninsured 1

Operation of an unsafe vehicle 1

Expired vehicle registration 1

Totals 29

Vehicle impound 1

Warnings for unlawful use of a communication 12

device (11) and seatbelt (1)

Burleigh said, “The Bend Police Department has committed to the safety of motorists using the roadways in our community. Distracted driving is a national problem that has caused several deaths and severe injuries. We are committed to educating drivers to make them aware of the dangers involved in driving while distracted.”