Menifee Police Issue 24 Citations During Distracted Driving Operation

MENIFEE, CA — Menifee police issued 24 citations to motorists during an enforcement operation intended to deter distracted driving, authorities said.

The operation was conducted from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on July 16 and yielded multiple citations for various violations, including nine citations for hands-free cell phone violations, and 15 citations for unspecified, 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," Sgt. Dan Beare of Menifee PD said on Tuesday.

"Our ultimate goal is to change behaviors that help make our roads safer," he added.

Under state law, drivers are not allowed to hold their cell phone or other electronic device while driving for talking, texting, or to use an app. Using a cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine. A second violation within 36 months could lead to a point added to the driver's record.

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