POLICE in Warwickshire prosecuted more than 60 people for using their mobile phone while driving in just two weeks from February 8-21.
The initiative was part of a national campaign aimed at changing driver habits and highlighting the consequences of failing to do so.
In all, 19 of those prosecuted were HGV drivers, 22 were van drivers and 20 were behind the wheel of a car.
Inspector Jem Mountford said: “I find it shocking that so many drivers are willing to risk their life and the lives of others by using their mobile phone whilst driving.
“The results are due to a tremendous effort made by all front line officers from all departments including our Commercial Vehicle Unit, Operations Patrol Unit, Safer Neighbourhood Teams and the Special Constabulary all working together.
“Several SNT teams completed mini-operations with static officers observing traffic to see if drivers were using mobile phones whilst driving.”
Warwickshire Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe added: “These figures just go to show how important it is to continue a programme of enforcement alongside educating drivers of the dangers.
“Good police work alone cannot stop dangerous driving behaviours and it will take a change in people’s attitudes to how they use the roads in the long term.
“Ultimately, I want us to get to a situation where road safety is everyone’s top priority.”
