MARTINSVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — The Martinsville Police Department has begun utilizing cameras and license plate readers to monitor and enforce speed violations in school zones.

The initiative follows an ordinance passed by the Martinsville City Council in October 2023, which allowed for the installation of photo speed monitoring devices in school crossing zones throughout the city to enhance student safety.

In partnership with a contracted service, cameras equipped with laser technology and license plate readers have been installed at all elementary, middle, and high schools in the city.

These devices will operate during school zone speed limit periods, tracking vehicle speeds and reporting violators to the police department, an article on the city’s website said.

Speeding vehicles will result in a $100 fine issued to the registered owner of the car.

The use of this technology comes from a 2023 safety study that revealed a high number of speeding incidents in school zones, the article said.

Martinsville Chief of Police Rob Fincher expressed confidence in the system, noting that similar programs in other areas have led to a significant reduction in violations.

“Our goal with this camera enforcement is to increase student safety,” said Chief Fincher. “Other localities have seen up to a 90% reduction in violations, and we hope to see similar results here.”

Fincher said warning signs and speed feedback displays have been installed ahead of the cameras to alert drivers as they enter school zones.

While the fines will not impact driving records, individuals can dispute them in court if they believe they were not the driver.

For more information, contact police department at 276-638-8751.

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