I-Team Investigates: CT Speed Cameras’ Role in Safety vs Revenue
In Connecticut, speed cameras are at the center of a debate regarding their role in enhancing public safety versus generating revenue. Local law enforcement asserts that these cameras effectively reduce speeding across the state, but some drivers raise concerns about their legitimacy.
Speed Camera Implementation in Washington
The town of Washington initiated the use of speed cameras on Old Litchfield Road/Route 109. Initially, multiple cameras were in operation, but following complaints, only one remains active on Old Litchfield Road.
Since citations began being issued on May 14, 2023, Washington has sent out a total of 11,776 tickets, amounting to $590,990 in fines. Out of these, the town has received $408,225 in payments and after covering vendor fees, netted approximately $182,765 in revenue.
Concerns from Local Residents
Residents like Carrie Neri have expressed concerns about the legitimacy of tickets issued. Neri, while visiting her mother in Morris, received a citation indicating she was driving 14 miles per hour over the speed limit. She noted the road’s winding nature and found it hard to believe she was speeding.
- Violation recorded: 49 mph in a lower speed zone.
- Fine issued: $50.
Upon receiving the ticket, Neri began to investigate the validity of her citation and discovered others encountered similar issues, including one bus driver who successfully challenged his ticket.
Technical Issues with Speed Cameras
The I-Team learned from First Selectman James Brinton that the rollout of speed cameras has faced challenges. Technology issues led to problems with connectivity, prompting the replacement of some camera units.
Officer Richard Innaimo, Washington’s full-time police officer, reviews each citation before it is issued. He reported rejecting over 2,000 citations due to discrepancies in license plate readings or visibility issues.
Calibration and Legal Validity
Camera calibration is crucial for maintaining accuracy. According to Officer Innaimo, the cameras that recorded Neri’s speed were calibrated in mid-May and again on July 2, 2023. He stated that tickets issued between these calibration dates are valid if they met the established parameters.
Connecticut law mandates that speed cameras be calibrated annually, ensuring their ongoing accuracy as stationary devices.
Revenue and Public Safety
Despite criticisms labeling speed cameras as a revenue tool, Officer Innaimo emphasized that they are primarily meant to enhance safety. The first offense in Washington carries a $50 fine, with subsequent violations incurring a $75 fee. Importantly, any revenue generated must be allocated for roadway safety initiatives.
Looking ahead, another speed camera is set to be installed on Baldwin Hill Road, pending approval from the state Department of Transportation. This ensures that any future implementations of speed monitoring are properly authorized.
Conclusion
As questions regarding the speed cameras’ legitimacy and purpose continue, Washington officials assert that the primary goal remains the reduction of speed-related incidents. For those wishing to contest speeding tickets, information regarding appeals will be made available soon.
