As a resident of Oro Valley I have observed Oro Valley police officers talking on their cell phones while driving on patrol. Since the Town Council enacted a local ordinance the police department has been pushing an education campaign about not using electronic devices while driving, also known as “hands-free.”
By having personnel not following the same rules as outlined in the ordinance shows a disregard for public safety, as the rules should apply to anyone who drives on our streets. The police department has upgraded their fleet with vehicles that have the capability to utilize Bluetooth technology, thus being able to drive on patrol hands-free.
Other jurisdictions in Pima County are looking at enacting a similar ordinance and their police departments should also be thinking about driving hands-free as well. I challenge all emergency services to respect the rules and do the right thing and enact policies that strictly enforce the use of hands-free technology for all of their employees while on duty to provide a safe and accident-free work environment.
Bill Garner
Oro Valley
