Newspaper survey: Fewer traffic tickets issued in Ohio

CINCINNATI (AP) — A newspaper’s analysis finds a slide in the number of traffic tickets issued in Ohio, a drop law enforcers say reflects police cuts and an increasing stigma on drunken driving.

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports annual court filings of traffic cases show citations declined 13 percent statewide from 2006 to 2010. That decrease includes a 20 percent dip in arrests for operating a vehicle under the influence.

Sheriff A.J. “Tim” Rodenberg Jr. in southwest Ohio’s Clermont County says there are “fewer troops in the field” to write tickets because of budget cuts. His department is down 10 deputies from a few years ago.

Rodenberg and others also point to greater awareness of the stiff penalties for drinking and driving. Cincinnati police Capt. Gary Lee says behaviors are changing.