Central Oregon traffic team wraps up distracted driving enforcement campaign, issues 146 citations

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Central Oregon Multi-Agency Traffic Team (MATT) has wrapped up its Distracted Driving Awareness Month focused enforcement and education effort, which took place this week

MATT issued 146 citations for distracted driving during a focused enforcement and education effort in April.

Central Oregon MATT conducted the operation as part of its ongoing focus on collaborative, high-visibility traffic enforcement and public education. The team aims to reduce serious injury and fatal crashes across the region, identifying distracted driving, particularly cell phone use, as a significant contributing factor in collisions.

During the three enforcement dates, MATT members conducted no fewer than 315 traffic stops. These stops included 135 for distracted driving or cell phone violations, resulting in the 146 citations issued.

The operation also led to three arrests, including one for driving under the influence of intoxicants, known as DUII. Officers also contacted 10 drivers who were operating with suspended driving privileges.

Central Oregon MATT is composed of officers, deputies and troopers from several agencies. These include the Bend Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, Sunriver Police Department, Black Butte Ranch Police Department, Redmond Police Department and the Oregon State Police – Bend Command.

Oregon law (ORS 811.507) prohibits drivers from holding or using a mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. Penalties for violations increase with repeated offenses and a third conviction within a 10-year period is classified as a Class B misdemeanor, which carries potential criminal penalties.

MATT encourages all drivers to make attentive driving a regular habit, emphasizing that even momentary distractions can lead to life-altering outcomes.

Central Oregon MATT reminds everyone to "Slow down, phone down."