LOS ANGELES : Traffic Citations Increase at Blue Line Crossings

Special patrols by sheriff’s deputies have produced a fivefold increase in the number of drivers and pedestrians cited for ignoring flashing lights and crossing gates where the Metro Blue Line crosses city streets, county transportation officials said this week.

In its first 10 days on patrol, the Sheriff’s Department special enforcement team issued 721 citations, which carry fines ranging from $95 to $240. Before June 8, when the special team was deployed, deputies issued an average of 114 citations in a typical 10-day period.

“We will continue issuing citations until we get a reduction (in the number of violators), which will indicate that the message has been heard,” Sheriff’s Capt. Frank Vadurro said. The program is scheduled to last 90 days.