Modesto Police Issue 40 Tickets for School Zone Violations

Modesto police have ramped up enforcement around local schools, issuing dozens of tickets in response to traffic violations as students return to classes. The heightened patrols coincided with the first day of school for the Modesto City Schools system, with officers focusing on ensuring the safety of students in the vicinity of more than two dozen campuses. As of Friday, police reported a total of 40 citations had been issued. The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance student safety and educate the community about proper traffic regulations in school zones. In a statement shared on social media, the police emphasized their commitment to protecting children and promoting awareness of traffic laws. However, they did not specify any particular infractions that were more prevalent than others during the enforcement period. This operation was supported by a grant from the Office of Traffic Safety, which has enabled the police department to allocate additional resources to monitor school zones effectively. California law mandates specific traffic regulations in these areas, including a speed limit of 25 mph within 500 feet of a school when children are present, with some zones requiring even lower speeds. Drivers are also reminded to be vigilant around school buses, as failing to stop for a bus with flashing red lights can result in fines of up to $1,000. The police department's efforts aim to foster a safer environment for students as they navigate their way to and from school.