Pasadena Police Watching Out for Cellphone-Wielding Drivers

Written by City News Service

Pasadena police plan a crackdown Monday on drivers who text or operate hand-held cellphones behind the wheel, department officials said.

"We all know that talking on our cellphones while driving is distracting, but that doesn't stop some people from continuing to do it," said Pasadena police Chief Phillip L. Sanchez.

The chief said that Monday's effort, involving the issuance of citations to cellphone scofflaws, is intended to educate the community about the dangers of cellphone use while driving.

"We hope people realize the danger involved and change their driving habits to help protect themselves, their families and others on the road," Sanchez said in a statement.

The first cellphone violation could cost motorists $162 and each subsequent violation, $285. Distracted driving violations generate even higher fines.

Police officials suggest putting cellphones out of reach or turning them off entirely while driving.