Weld County law enforcement now have to pay the tickets they accrue from red light cameras and photo radar vans while they are on duty. Hopefully this means no more joy riding through the streets of Greeley, Hudson, or Berthoud without any consequence. This new statute replaces the old one that stated that officers were first given a verbal reprimand for the first time they were caught on a red light camera or by a photo radar van, and a written reprimand after the second instance.
It is unfair and unsafe that police officers in Milliken, Keenseburg, or Erie feel they can disregard traffic laws. To a person with a bad driving record, running a red light and being caught on camera could result in the loss of a license. The district attorney may also charge them with Careless Driving (CRS 42-4-1402) or Reckless Driving (CRS 42-4-1401). While we aren’t thrilled with red light cameras and photo radar vans, we do understand their purpose. And they are only doing their job if everyone has to abide by them.
If the justice system is busy trying to shield their own and give their police officers special treatment, you can be assured that they will take their side in an investigation. Police officers think they are above the law and they take advantage of a system they know very well. Don’t be tricked into thinking that police officers have any concern for your interests when you are arrested. Officers are there to do a job, and the more people they “get off the streets,” the more they feel they are doing that job.
If you are arrested by Weld County Sheriff’s Deputies or other law enforcement, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the experienced criminal defense lawyers at the O’Malley Law Office at 970-616-6009. Together, we can protect your future.