Drivers take note: Weatherfield cops begin using speed cameras today

WEATHERSFIELD — The Weathersfield Police Department began using its hand-held officer-operated traffic cameras today at 7 a.m.

The system begins with written warnings for two weeks — through Dec. 21. After that, citations will be issued, according to the police department's Facebook page.

With this system, the device operated by an officer takes a photograph of the car and its license plate if a speed violation is detected, according to a township news release in October.

After Dec. 21, violators will receive a citation imposing a civil fine of $100 ($150 in construction zones). No points will be placed on the operator's driving record.

Signs will be posted on the highways entering the township to inform inbound traffic that the township uses the devices. Citations are issued to vehicles exceeding the speed limit by more than 10 miles per hour (6 mph in school zones). People who contest their citation will have a hearing before a hearing officer.

The project is part of a contract with Optotraffic LLC.

Last month, Hubbard Township's police department suspended use of its officer-operated traffic cameras after its trial period ended because of interpretations of Ohio law regarding non-commissioned officers operating the system and commissioned officers in townships of fewer than 50,000 people enforcing the system on interstates.

Youngstown has operated a hand-held traffic-camera system since the summer.