I-TEAM Investigates: CT Speed Cameras—Safety Measure or Revenue Generator?

In Connecticut, a debate is brewing over the role of speed cameras as either a public safety initiative or a revenue source. The local police assert that these cameras are indeed helping to lower vehicle speeds, while many drivers question their legitimacy.

Background on Speed Cameras in Washington

The town of Washington was the pioneer in implementing speed cameras in Connecticut. Initially, several cameras were placed on Old Litchfield Road (Route 109). However, due to community complaints, only one camera remains operational in a specific block.

Statistics and Citations

• Citations began on May 14th.
• As of October 30th, 11,776 citations have been issued.
• The total amount from these citations is approximately $590,990.
• After vendor payments, the town has collected around $182,765.

Public Reaction and Concerns

Many residents, including Carrie Neri, have voiced skepticism regarding the fairness of their citations. After receiving a ticket for allegedly speeding 14 mph over the limit, Neri expressed her confusion about the validity of the enforcement process.

Challenges in the Enforcement Process

Officer Richard Innaimo is responsible for reviewing each citation issued by the cameras. He confirmed that over 2,000 citations had been rejected due to issues like unclear license plate visibility. The police department is keen on ensuring only valid tickets are processed.

Neri’s concerns were echoed during a Board of Selectmen meeting where First Selectman James Brinton admitted that the rollout of the speed cameras was not smooth. Technical difficulties had emerged, causing issues with connectivity, thus raising questions about the reliability of the citations during that period.

Calibration and Legal Standpoint

Concerns about the calibration of the speed cameras were also prevalent. Neri’s citation stated that the camera was calibrated mid-May, leading to questions about the validity of tickets issued before a subsequent recalibration in July. Officer Innaimo clarified that the law allows for a yearly calibration, indicating that citations issued during that timeframe remain valid.

Next Steps for Drivers

For those wishing to contest their tickets, legal counsel suggests preparing specific arguments. Washington has set a $50 fine for the first offense and $75 for subsequent offenses. Revenue generated from these fines is mandated to be allocated for road safety initiatives.

Future Plans

Washington officials plan to expand their speed camera enforcement. A new camera is scheduled for installation on Baldwin Hill Road in the near future. To implement these systems, towns must obtain approval from the state Department of Transportation.