Millions in red-light fines unpaid in Dayton

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — Authorities in Dayton want to step up collections of fines owed by drivers caught on camera cruising through red lights.

The southwest Ohio city says red-light cameras have reduced accidents by 44 percent since first used in 2003. But some $3.7 million in fines — nearly half of those assessed — remain unpaid.

The city’s cut would be about $1 million. The rest would go to the company that operates the system that records the license plates of offending vehicles. Fines are $85 each.

A collection agency is being used to track down drivers who don’t pay, and police could take stronger actions such as putting immobilizing boots on ticket scofflaws’ vehicles.