Pocono News Section

Troopers Introduce Hi-Tech Tickets

Troopers Introduce Hi-Tech Tickets - Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 4:15PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Thursday, Jan 28, 2010 @ 04:15pm EST
Williamsport, Lycoming County-

The Pennsylvania State Police are rolling out a new computer-generated citation system, and we’ve got your sneak preview.

Advanced computer software is helping those state troopers write hi-tech traffic citations.

Troopers say the system has a number of benefits, including cutting in half the amount of time it takes to issue a citation.

Trooper Matt Burrows noted, "We don't have guys on traffic stops for very long. We don't have guys in vulnerable positions on traffic stops. So it's going to benefit everybody."

Once a trooper types in the traffic offender's information, it's automatically scanned through a law enforcement database.

Burrows explained, "It'll tell us if a person is wanted, if the car is stolen, if there are warrants for them."

Drivers who've received tickets in the past say they like the new method.

Michael Kuriga, of Mosquito Valley, said, "I think it's a fantastic idea. Today with the computer interfaces, and sharing of data, it'll be a good way to cross reference if there are outstanding warrants, problems, parking tickets, etc."

The information is also sent directly to the local district magistrate's office, where the traffic offender would likely have to go if there is a fine to be paid.

District Magistrate Allen Page noted, "It's much easier to read some aspects of it, so you don't have to worry about the penmanship of the officer or trooper."

Kuriga echoed that notion, saying, "Especially when you're getting a copy of a copy, and you have no idea what the officer's name is and exactly what the violation was."

The new system should also cut down on the amount of paper used in writing citations.

Local magistrates say the adjustment may be difficult at first, but it's one they're ready to make.

Page added, "Clearly technology is evolving to be utilized more and more in all phases of business, including government."

The new system was successfully piloted in Westmoreland County. It will be installed in all Pennsylvania State Police cruisers in the coming weeks.