31 Motorists Cited By Menifee Police During Distracted Driving Operation

MENIFEE, CA — Menifee police cited 31 motorists during a distracted driving operation that began Friday night.

The operation was held from 6 p.m. Friday to 2 a.m. Saturday. Eighteen motorists were cited for hands-free cell phone violations, and 13 citations were issued for "other dangerous driving behaviors," according to the Menifee Police Department.

"Despite repeated efforts to warn drivers about the hands-free cell phone law, some drivers continue to use their phones while operating a vehicle," said Sgt. Dan Beare of the Menifee Police Department. "Our ultimate goal is to change behaviors that help make our roads safer."

Under California law, motorists are not allowed to hold their cell phone or other electronic devices while driving, including for talking, texting, or using an app.

Using a cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine. Violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense can result in a point being added to a driver's record.

Funding for the distracted driving operation was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.