Public Comments on Speed Traps

Updated March 13, 2002

OK Speedtraps
Maybe the speed traps in Watts Oklahoma are finally gone, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. As we can plainly see on this very web site, this sort of law enforcement activity is very unpopular and many of us are willing to let it be known. Unfortunately, I suspect that most of us do little more then that. If we fail to let our elected officials know our opinions on this subject, we are never going to have much effect on this problem. As I recall, a speed trap law has failed in the Oklahoma Legislature twice in the last few years. Some of our surrounding states have had a law against speed traps for a long time. Why not Oklahoma??

I've heard the argument many times; "my voice don't count". I must believe that if your committed enough, you can make you voice heard by elected officials. They are the only ones who can affect this problem. Also we must take a lesson from our friends in the law enforcement community. Practically every cop, in every jurisdiction pays dues for a membership with some law enforcement organization (FOP,ect). Guess where some of that money from membership dues goes?? Lobbyist's cost money. Law Enforcement has figured out a long time ago that organizing has yielded big payoffs for them politically. When are members of the driving public going to learn the same lesson?? Would you be willing to pay a annual dues equivalent to about one tank of gas a year for a membership that actually represents you interests with the politicians?? Most of us can certainly afford that. I'm not talking about the AAA either. You can start by looking at the National Motorists Association's web site. Those of us who hate speed traps and other abusive traffic control measures need to get serious about doing something! Talk is cheap. 

I've been studying traffic control issues for twenty years or more. To say that revenue isn't the one of the primary reasons for speed traps and other law enforcement behavior is laughable. Speed limits in smaller jurisdictions are generally set locally by politicians. Oh no, they sure don't have any vested interest in keeping speed limits artificially low. Even when traffic engineers are employed to set speed limits, they work for the same jurisdictions for which they set speed limits. No…. there's no conflict of interest there, ha, ha. To say that revenue doesn't affect the setting of these arbitrary posted speed limits is ludicrous. 

Money affects everything it touches in this country and traffic control is no different. Traffic control is one of the few activities that law enforcement can make money for the city coffers. There's a lot of smoke and mirrors out there when it comes to supporting traffic control issues.  We've seen some of that on this web site. It's time we started debunking some of these myths once and for all. It's time we started taking back our streets! Lets let our legislators know we mean business. 

Fritz, Bixby, OK

Official piracy
Something needs to be done about the piracy and abuse of police power that occurs on a regular basis on Oklahoma roads, by the police and municipal officials who encourage the fleecing of U.S.Citizens, traveling thru Oklahoma. It seems that smaller municipalities, are lobbying our elected officials, who seem to turn a deaf ear to the moans of the Public  whom they are elected to serve, Its time to return the Right to travel freely and uninterrupted, without "pretextual" traffic stops, by "rogue" cops back to the citizens!

Scott Stewart

Speedtraps
I’m really sorry that everyone is so upset with the so called speedtrap in Watts, but people the law is the law! If you get caught speeding than you deserve a ticket. You people put all the blame on the police officers when all they are doing is their jobs. I know not all police officers are honest law obeying citizens but dont go blaming all your problems on them because most take there job serious and are only doing what is right and what the laws permits. I’m not trying to take either side here but if slowing down speeders is a crime than what’s next? You act like speeding isn’t a big deal, but a lot of people have lost loved ones in accidents where speeding was a issue and I’m sure that its a big deal to them.

K. Smith

Defending speedtraps
I was shocked after reading the report on speed traps.  There are always those select few people who think they are "above the law" and believe that if they are speeding then it should be ok.  SPEED does kill.  Wake up people the majority of officers are here to serve and protect.  They are PROTECTING you by catching speeders.  Most of the time when people see officers "hanging" out in a certain area it is because we have received many complaints about it.  Did you ever think of that?

Amanda Tackett, SR. Officer
McLoud Police Dept.

Watts speedtrap ends
I am happy to report that one of the first speed traps you reported on, Watts OK is no longer. On Friday Oct 19,2001 the town of Watts closed down its Police Department. There is no longer any threat of the Speed Trap there. Law enforcement will be handled by Adair County Sheriff Department and highway violations will be handled by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. One more for the good guys. Keep up the good work on your reporting.

Robert Perkins

Speedtraps shame OK
I have family in Oklahoma and refuse to go and see them because of the tickets that we get everytime we enter the State. It seems as if they target out of state vehicles purposely. Last visit was for a funeral 4 yrs ago and sure enough another ticket. I was using the cruise control and a car full of noisy kids-I had no energy to fight ticket so paid as usual. We do go on vacation and spend a fair share of money,but we always avoid Okalhoma now. Family does not understand why we don't come to see them-they have to come to us. I used to live there and when I had an OK tag was never harrassed like when stopped with TX tags. Oklahoma is lossing out in many more ways than revenue by this practice. Children hardly know their Grandparents, couldn't attend brother marriage, couldn't attend sisters marraige, Parents 50th anniversary .......Oklahoma should be ashamed.

Name Withheld

Speedtraps not forgotten
Well, judging from the lack of comments posted, the speed trap issue is over…NOT!!  I guess Tulsa Today has lost interest. Meanwhile people like Mr. Fred H. Gravett is silently plugging away at the Department of Public Safety to get some of the little towns like Stringtown and Atoka off the main highway to Dallas from Tulsa. He tells me that he's making some progress after two years of bugging the Department of Public Safety. I will be glad to share some of his comments, with his permission. In fact he has a comment on this very site entitled "Speedtrap in Caney" and his Email address is also posted.

Fritz, Bixby

Watts amok
I am responding to Dan Wofford’s article about “Watts amok.” This was an excellent article, I could not agree with Dan more.  I grew up in Westville and still have to go through Watts each time I go back to visit my family. Without fail, there is always a policeman parked out by the road, watching for speeders.  We try to warn anyone who is going that way for the first time, but even when you know what they are doing it is often hard to remember to slow down fast enough.

We have always joked about it, but I do honestly feel it is an abuse of power and a serious issue.  I hope Dan’s article will help to raise some awareness and bring this foolishness to an end. Thank you.

Withheld

Police Abuse in Moffet
I am involved in the vending business and travel quite a lot, I have not been pulled over by the Moffet Gestapo!

However I have a customer who has a club between Rolland and Moffet and for the past year they have been targeting everyone who pulls out of his parking lot!

The most common fine is for drunk driving a sum of 600.00 CASH gets you back in your car and on your way.

However if you are caught with drugs this a more serious offense (as it should be) I have heard that for 1100.00 cash you too can go on down the road (with your drugs) and not to worry if you don't have this much cash on you, pay what you can and come back the next day (what a great system) also, don't worry as they will not report this to the state so your record stays clean.

One individual who is a weekly customer who does not drink got pulled over after leaving the club and was told he was getting a ticket for DUI,(his choice pay or go to jail) he paid his 600.00 cash and called the club owner the next day, which he in turn called the police chief of Moffet and explained this guy does not drink beer. Upon being informed of this, the chief’s response was you know we didn't think that guy had been drinking but it was too late we already had wrote the ticket but tell him to come by and we will give him his money back!

This is law enforcement at its worst! It is a shame, something needs to be done!

I believe the population of Moffet is about sixty one people and they have a police dept. with six cars wow check out that ratio (should be crime free and would be if it wasn't for the police dept.)

One more item, I understand the mayor of Moffet who I believe his name is something like Billy Ray Yondell rides along with the police on most nights and from my information he is about mid forties and has not filed taxes with the internal revenue for the past six years!

Yes once again we have crooks for law! What a SHAME!  Thank you for allowing me to voice my thoughts

Terry Shrum, President

S&D Music Inc., Tulsa Ok

Speedtraps corrupt police
Gee, for some reason I have never heard a child tell me that they wanted to be a police officer so they could write tickets to increase revenue for the bureaucracy.

Police should be crime fighters and now it seems that almost everywhere they are being used as revenue collectors while the list of arrest warrants at most departments grows larger.

Keeping the police from chasing real criminals makes them look like cowards.

As someone who has worked in the insurance industry I can tell you the dirty little secret, that speed limits are often kept artificially low so as to generate revenue. Also many insurance companies DONATE radar guns to police departments on the condition that they will be used to write tickets every day so the companies can than raise the rates of those ticketed.

The entire traffic court system is corrupt in most states and is designed to deny you due process.  In some states the judge and lawyer in the court have their salaries paid by the revenue they generate so therefore they have a vested interest in finding you guilty. There are organizations that you can contact on the internet that specialize in fighting traffic tickets so join them today. Also remember that the traffic court system depends on you not fighting your tickets and to get compliance with no resistance. So I encourage every person who gets a ticket to fight every ticket to the Nth degree. Let the system know that you will appeal and fight tenaciously and relentlessly. I have fought two tickets and got the fine reduced to minimum on one and beat the other.

When enough people resist in court and then appeal it will cost so much that it will bring the traffic court system to its knees. In these days of state surplus' and economic prosperity there is NO excuse for government not being able to run smoothly with the money they already have unless you have corrupt and/or wasteful spendthrift politicians who just cant seem to get enough.

Chuck Norton

Back off speedtraps
I am so sick of hearing all the bitching about "speed traps". I have listened to people for years talk about the great evil "speed trap" and never has one person who was gripping give the proper, legal definition of the term. Just because a police officer enforces the law does not mean it is a "speed trap". And if you don't want to get pulled over, DON'T BREAK THE LAW. If the sign says 65 it does not mean 65 + 5. Police officers do not make the law. So get off of their backs!

Mark

Editors Note:
Speed traps are not law enforcement, but highway robbery. Some fine day in Oklahoma, one honorable branch of law enforcement or the other will remove the crooks in cop uniforms. Until that time we will ride their backs, fronts and sides.  Amen!

Watts speedtrap racist
I work closely with the Hispanic Community.  I have had several Hispanics tell me that they do not go through Watts because the police officers are bad to them. My husband was even arrested in Watts one time.  He was sent to Westville Police Department at that time.  He was acting as if he didn't speak Spanish.  The Westville Police Department asked him "How did you get to the United States? Fly?" They made movements with their arms like birds.  I don't remember all that was sad but they really belittled him terribly bad.  Sure he was in the wrong, but he is a human and deserves to be treated like one just like any other person.

Mendy Trejo Martinez

Editor's Note:
We continue to fight the abuse of police power and to investigate law breaking by public officials in Watts.  However, until the FBI hauls them all to prison, we suggest everyone avoid the evil hamlet in the hills.

Speed trap Oklahoma
The whole state is a "speed trap".

The state legislature just increased the fine for speeding to help pay for highway patrol equipment.

This is an example of what is wrong with government.  Speeding fines were not raised for the purpose of making our highways safe, they were raised so the state could buy police cars.

The legislatures arguments for increasing the fines for speeding reenforce arguments that our laws are no longer written to make the population safe, but are written to create criminal classes that can have their private property and money seized to support government.

If the purpose of traffic fines is to support government instead of to make the highways safe, aren't we then living in a "speed trap" state.

Bobbie Burgett
Moor, Oklahoma

Watts never changes
I found your article very interesting. Some things apparently never change. I grew up in Westville, Ok.  I received my first speeding ticket, when I was 16yrs old, in Watts, Ok.  It was about 1:00 am and I was returning from the Drive-in movie in Siloam Springs. I was pulled over in Watts and was told that I was doing 52mph in a 50mph zone. I was told that I could show up in court on a certain date or pay a $25 fine right then and not have to show up in court. This upset me and I ask the officer and his partner, how do I know the money would get to where it was supposed to go?  They asked me what did I mean, and I ask how do I know that you and your partner aren't going to have breakfast on it.  They got very angry and made me follow them to the post office, where they made me put the money in an envelope and drop it in the mail box. After that the officer threw my driver’s license on the ground at my feet and told me to get out of town.  I'm sure that as soon as I was out of sight, they probably took out a key and opened the mailbox. Sounds like things haven't changed much.

David Liams
Bivins, TX

Watts a shocker
Wow! I was born and raised in Oklahoma and was aware of various speedtraps in and around the towns where I grew up and attended college. I am shocked to find that this type of activity still goes on. I read a story the other day, in another paper, which stated Oklahoma is trying to shake it's "Oklahoma is OK" image, in order to attract big business to the state.  I guess the state leaders think it is not important to clean up these messy little speedtrap issues before they start trying to sell Oklahoma to the rest of the world.

Carol Tubby
Dallas, TX

World-wide shame
Well, a friend of mine sent me this URL and it was very...shall we say "interesting" reading.  I lived in Adair County for a total of four years, the last two of those in Watts, and I agree totally with the speed trap issue!  I now live in The Netherlands but when my husband came over to the States for the first time, the first thing I told him was, "when we're in Watts, DON'T even go ONE mile over the speed limit!"

On the other hand, we did get pulled over by a very nice officer in Watts. My car had no taillights and we were on our way to Siloam to buy new fuses, and were pulled over by a Watts cop.  I was sure we'd get a ticket, but instead he just told us we didn't have lights, offered some advice on what the problem could be, then told us to lightly ride the brake until we got to Wal-Mart.  So, even though there might be scandals and speed traps, not all the police officers in Watts are corrupt.

Stacy Marsman
Alkmaar, The Netherlands

What about Dickson? 
Watts sounds horrible, but the tiny town of Dickson Ok. With one store and over 8 miles of highway to work with is fast trying to top Watts. They are on hwy. 199 which is old hwy. 70. They are doing the same thing. Why are our state law makers allowing this to happen. I guess they just don't give a dam.

fiddler@trinex.net

Sick of Watts
I for one am so sick of hearing about the "Watts Speed Trap." It's obvious to me that the people griping about the speed limit in Watts, have nothing better to do with their time. If the speed limit was 65 in Watts, you people would be griping about traffic driving too fast in a residential area.

GET OVER IT! Do the same people complain about speed limits being 25 in
School zones?  The state of Oklahoma sets these speed limits for a reason.
So, quit your bitchin'

J.D. Fields
Siloam Springs, ARK

Is Watts really a city?
When the City of Watts, OK does anything for residents such as street repair, garbage collection, street signs, youth activities, social events, street lights, mowing the road sides, cleaning litter and garbage strewn along their money making road way called Highway 59, then it should have the right to call itself a city.  The speed trap does slow traffic in this area and for this we are grateful, but not enough to bear the shame of a reputation that the Watts Police Department has earned.

RICHARD ECKSTEIN
Watts, OK

Speed trap reputation
Watts has the reputation of a "Speed Trap" only because people won't watch their speed.  Watts is a small town with a major highway running right through it.  Just like any other town, Watts will write tickets for any one who chooses to disobey the law.  The picture of the police officer and the donut wise crack was very tacky.  Donuts are certainly NOT the issue here.  There are properly posted speed limit signs, travelers should be well aware of them.  Also,  by stopping so many travelers, they can check for any alcohol or drug use by that person(s) and could very well save another person's life.  So, next time you go babbling on about Speed traps or donuts, think about the good they are doing.  These officers are only doing their job, and doing it right. 

Bryan Fields
WATTS POLICE DEPARTMENT

Speedtraps to Dallas
I drive from Dallas to Tulsa and back every weekend.  I take highway 75/69 the entire way.  Speedtraps are plentiful, and I thought I might inform everyone where to be cautious.  Kiowa is probably the worst.  I watch someone get pulled over every time.  Caddo, Stringtown and Caney are next.  Atoka/Tushka also is a huge speedtrap.  I have made this trip about 30 times and have been pulled over several times.  A "Camaro Cop" was even on the prowl between Stringtown and Atoka one evening.  It is ridiculous that these small towns have an excessive number of police officers, just to write tickets.  And why are there more cops out during holidays???  EASY...more cars on the road = more tickets = more money.  ABSURD!!!

Chris Harmon, Tulsa

Speed Trap Exchange
I came across your web site while doing research on Speed Traps.  I am working with an organization that is creating a site to be known as the Speed Trap Exchange, to let drivers know that the problem of revenue generation through issuance of speeding tickets exists in many municipalities.  Please send any updates on the actions of the Oklahoma legislature with regard to speed traps.

Tim Winker

Speed traps out of hand
The speed traps in Oklahoma are getting out of hand. My father-in-law who is 74 years old drives dealer trade vehicles to make a few dollars to add to his social security check. While driving through Mooreland, OK and going with the flow of traffic, about 8-10 mph over the posted speed limit, he was singled out of 5 other cars to be pulled over. He was driving an expensive dealer trade from out of town, so he looked like an easy mark. He was given a ticket for 10 mph over the limit that totaled $169.00. He talked to the local judge who comes to Mooreland twice a week who arrogantly said, "How do you think I get paid around here". If this is not abuse of power, I don't know what is. My father-in-law was also told that "If you plan to fight this ticket you better bring a fancy lawyer". If these small towns don't want to dry up entirely they will have to stop gouging the people who travel through them, because we will not stop in them and shop thier stores.

John Mack

The Neguin vs. Sheriff fight
In reply to the letter written by Debbie Neguin about the sheriff of Adair County. Mrs Neguin seems to blame the sheriff for the less than stellar performance of her petition drive for a grand jury. Could it be that there weren't that many voters who believed her allegations? Could it be that her undisguised bitterness toward the sheriff was because she quit her job and then decided she wanted it back but didn't get it? Could it be that she is mad because she and her husband were arrested at different times for different reasons when the District Attorney issued warrants? 

While Mr. and Mrs. Neguin have been going around the county trying their best to smear the sheriff with falsehoods, the sheriff has been quietly going around the county busting drug labs, [10 last year and 3 so far this year], solving burglaries, recovering stolen property, and providing evenhanded law enforcement to all citizens regardless of who they are or who they know. He has doubled the number of officers on the street, upgraded the fleet of patrol cars, and started a prisoner work program to clean up trash along the roads. The office operation is professional and running efficiently. All records are complete and have backup so that the original, if lost or mislaid, can be replaced so that the case may be completed and presented to the District Attorney for prosecution. The relationship between the DA office and the sheriff’s office is the best it has ever been. In short we have the best county law enforcement Adair County has had since I have lived here [25 years]. I urge all residents who support good law enforcement and believe that we have it now to be vocal with their thoughts to others. Don't let the voices of many be drowned out by the voices of the few because the many were silent when it counted.

Bob Perkins, Adair County

Citizens commission
I read closely the interview with Bob Ricks, Department of Public Safety and Security. It becomes quite clear to me that he is very uncomfortable being placed in a position to judge members of his own profession. We know historically that it's almost impossible to get law enforcement to deal with it's own problems. It's like asking members of any group to judge their own actions. 

I think it would be far more effective to form a citizens police commission to investigate allegations of inappropriate law enforcement activity. The citizens need to have input into law enforcement activity as much as they do setting the speed limits themselves, but we have neither. When the state deems certain citizen activities inappropriate they quickly generate laws to deal with it. Why should municipalities be treated any different?

It's odd to me to hear a state official tell us that they would prefer to not get involved in telling local officials what to do. Normally, the state doesn't mind doing that for they already dictate man actions of local government.  Is he insinuating that law enforcement activity is a sacred cow not to be touched no matter how ridiculous their activity. In a democracy the people are in charge, or have we lost that right also. This is not a decision for law enforcement to make, it's the people's right to decide. 

We have given law enforcement in this state and country tremendous authority over the citizenry. Unfortunately, we have not balanced that authority with effective citizen input. Thus, law Enforcement remains a largely unregulated aspect of government activity. 

Fritz, BIxby

Outrage to action
Truly, this [speed trap issue] is an outrage that begs the most immediate action. But, as usual, it's a long way from the dinner plate to the mouth. It's going to take an organization and some funding and most of all, people who are willing and able to spend their time and effort to make it happen.

Magna Carta News Service is well familiar with what it is going to take to make it happen and we have the means to get the word out both statewide and nationally and making it an issue that the people will get behind. But we can't do it alone, so how many will respond and help to get the ball rolling?

Mr. Arnett and his investigations and his hard work should not go un-rewarded. He deserves a lot of credit for what he has done and I am quite certain will continue to do to bring this to fruition. We must continue to rely heavily upon him and his journalistic efforts to keep us abreast of happenings as he encounters them and to be the first to announce any future actions and success stories that emerge, but he cannot be expected to go the whole fight alone.

Magna Carta News will be proud to work closely with Mr. Arnett on this matter. How about you? Now is the time to stand up and start getting counted.

Bill Bauer
Magna Carta News Service
Oklahoma City, Ok.
magnews@nstar.net
405-672-8340

Atoka shame
I'm from Atoka Oklahoma and there also the city derives over 70% of it income from out of state or out of county drivers.  Just south of Atoka sits Tushka, which derives about 90% of its city income from tickets. These cities are sharks attacking anyone who comes their way. I hope the legislature passes a bill to put them out of business.  It makes me ashamed to tell anyone that I'm from Atoka. 

Joe Bingham, Bartlesville

Speedtrap in Caney
July 29, 1998 the little town of Caney, OK., got one of Clinton’s "cops of the street grants."  They purchased an OHP patrol car, hired a cop and jumped out on highway 69/75, business was so good they purchased another patrol can and hired another cop.  You will find these cops sitting in the medium of highway 69/75 in a 70 MPH speed zone day and night.  The town of Caney lies well to the east and off the highway.

From July 29th thru November 14th they have written 532 speeding tickets.  In this speed trap there is no tolerance and the tickets are 77 dollars. I am doing my best to eliminate this speed trap.

Fred H. Gravett, Atoka, OK  74525
Telephone: 580-889-7777
E-Mail:  computer@oio.net

Adair Law sells drugs
I am from Chance, Ok but now live in Texas. When I was home recently my mother was telling me about the investigation on Watts Ok my response "Why are just stopping at Watts all of Adair county is corrupt it has been for the last 100 years. My family moved there in 1895 and my grandmother and all her brothers and sisters have told me stories of the LAW in that county for years.

When I was living there years ago I had been with and even myself bought drugs from law enforcement personal.  So you see, there should be an outside investigation conducted on the whole county not just one town.  You may even find this corruption includes high officials in state government as well.

melbrant@swbell.net

National Press
I would like to know as much as possible about the speed trap issue that your paper is covering. One of our members, Fred Gravett of Atoka has been an activist against these traps for three years. We are planning to back his efforts through the magazine.

Donna Carlson, OOIDA
Grain Valley, MO

Speedtrap Registry
It seems that you ongoing stories about the speedtraps in Watts should include one more thing, the URL of the "Speedtrap Registry".  It can be found at http://www.speedtrap.com/speedtrap/

Just drive the speed limit and you won't have to worry about the real cops.  It is just the cowboys in the small towns that feel their oats...mostly.

Carl Bradley, Lewisville, NC

Editor's Note
Supporters of the Watts Police Department have recently sent Tulsa Today several letters to the editor, but they did not include names or telephone numbers.  Please, we will publish your opinions without a name only if we know who you are and how to reach you.  We do welcome comments by anyone on any subject.

Speed trap campaign promise
I have read your articles on speed traps and the need for laws to prevent towns from conducting speed traps.

As campaign manager for Hoppy Heidelberg for Governor, I can assure you
that if elected, Mr. Heidelberg would be hasty to get such legislation passed in Oklahoma.  Mr. Heidelberg would also appreciate any support that you may be able to give him.  Although we all know that his chances to win the election this time seems rather slim, you can rest assured that he will be back in 2002 and campaigning hard. 

Bill Bauer
magnews@nstar.net

KGB tactics not unusual
It seems that the city of Watts, OK is under the scope.  I can assure you that not only is the city of Watts capable of KGB tactics, but so is Hober and Tulsa. 

I saw an officer running a speed trap on 129th E. Ave. in Tulsa.  Only 1/2 mile further south was a school zone.  Why was he not there?  Another time an officer was hiding just within a drive way and when he wrote me for a ticket he said they had received a lot of complaints for speeding.  My question was, "from who," there is no one on the street to complain.  It seems it would be better to patrol in full sight than to hid the unit that our tax dollars pay for. 

When I wrote to Mayor Savage she showed little interest in my letter, in fact, she was down right spiteful.  Perhaps because I referred to speed traps as KGB tactics.  I can also assure all that she nor any other politician nor any police officer would receive a ticket.  America, home of the free -- unless the police decide otherwise.

James Heaton
Tulsa

Appalling Practice
I believe this practice of speed traps in Oklahoma is appalling. How in the world can we call ourselves a democracy when we have this type of police state?  I do not believe that the money from the federal government was intended to buy squad cars to set up speed traps.  I would be willing to do anything to help correct this law that allows police officers to have this control. I have only lived here for about five years, but I don't like what I hear because some thing stinks. 

Ray Hermanson
Watts, Ok 

December war
Well, every body is making good points in what they are saying but nothing has been done yet and December is getting closer.  Like I said before, something better be done by time I get home or there will be hell to pay and I'm the collector. 

Buck Simmons
U.S. Army & Watts

Editor's Note:
Buck, work smart buddy and help us change the law rather than break it.

Speed trap kudos
Kudos to Tulsa Today for its efforts to expose the speed trap abuse of motorists.  Please visit the National Motorists Association web site for a great deal of information on speed limits, traffic tickets and other related subjects.  If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me.

Todd Franklin, Communications Director
National Motorists Association

Outlaw the practice
Speed Traps should be specifically outlawed in Oklahoma.  Speed enforcement should also be reviewed to promote safety and not revenue.  Otherwise law-abiding citizens are being pursued for their money. It seems downright UNAMERICAN.

Ron Hulshizer
Edmond, OK

Avoided on vacation
I just returned from my yearly vacation and it did not include the state of Oklahoma. Usually I spend vacation times with family in Oklahoma, but not this year. Your speed trap in Watts really hurt as I always bragged about returning to the state to retire. Early I wrote a message to the State legislature about this unjust act by law enforcement.  Your representatives should be informed and held responsible for any action by this criminal element in Watts, Oklahoma. I plan on following this article very closely as your home is my favorite place to live. Some of my fellow workers can not how I can believe in ok. with this type of operations going on.  Believe it has scared some vacationers away from Oklahoma this season. 

Larry Brown
Calcium, NY

Money and politics
I applaud Tulsa Today for tackling a problem that has grown throughout the years to the point that borders on ludicrously.  We must remember that the authority of these towns and cities, better known as municipalities, emanate from and with the blessing of the state. Consequently, there in lies the solution. I happen to think that the state has given municipalities entirely to much autonomy in this area. When citizens abuse their privileges some higher authority slaps down a law to deal with the abuse. Why are municipalities treated differently? If you will allow me to expand on this, you will see that two things work together to drive this speed trap problem, money and politics. 

I have looked at the speed trap laws in our surrounding states and I happen to think that although they are better then nothing, they are entirely to superficial. My feeling is that ideally there are two separate elements that need to be dealt with legislatively. One is the enforcement aspect and the other is the process by which speed limits are set. As we all know, the incentive and thus the evil factor that drives all this is the desire for revenue. The general rule is, the smaller the town, the greater the need and therefore the greater the abuse. Taking ALL the money out of the system would go along way in solving the problem. 

For those of you who are not a student of this study, I must tell you that we are up against some powerful adversaries up to and including the federal government.  A factor I recently became aware of concerns the federal grant money given out under the COPS or "Community Oriented Policing" program. This is Bill Clinton's idea of putting 100,000 cops on the streets, his so called "crime fighting program."  What most citizens and drivers don't know is that traffic control is an acknowledged part of that grant for so called "fighting crime". Now you know that the Federal Government considers the driving public as part of the criminal element. I informed both Representative Largent and Senator Inhofe of this disturbing development. Both seemed oblivious about my observation. This program could be renewed.  Let your legislators at the Federal level know you don't want the program renewed. 

Further, more funds are available through the governors "Oklahoma Highway Safety Office". This program called STORMS, or "Start taking Oklahoma Roads Seriously", gives free radar units to municipalities that meat their minimal requirements, which are one's with lessor resources. Ironically, these are the very jurisdictions that are most likely to run speed traps! And I'm sure there are other programs, both state and federal, which either directly or indirectly funnel your tax dollars to these communities, in other words "your tax dollars at work!"

To make matters worse, most if not all municipalities in Oklahoma belong to a little known organization rightfully called the "Municipal League". I happen to know that this organization has been deeply involved in helping to defeat previous attempts to pass speed trap legislation.

The only organization I'm aware of that represents the driving public is the National Motorists Association. They have a Web site at http://www.motorists.com/ . I encourage you to visit them, better yet become a member. One lesson to be learned from all this is that all our opponents are organized. If we could get just a few percent of the driving public involved in funding, lobbying and writing our legislatures we would numerically outnumber all of them. There in lies the challenge. 

Bixby

Claims of Watts corruption
I have lived in Watts for almost ten years.  The corruption there does not stop at the police force.  It goes all the way to Stilwell.  Rex Starr is part of that corruption.  The police are involved in drugs, drug money, and taking cash for tickets that they write but never turning in the actual tickets.  The money "mysteriously" disappears.  One officer a couple of years ago shot up one of those new cop cars and blamed it on someone that he never did see.  The rumor was that "Barney Fife" himself actually was responsible.  I have seen numerous times when the police made U-turns into oncoming traffic to stop someone going two miles over the speed limit.  I have also been witness to a few times when officers left their lights going after stopping someone and were still sitting waiting on their next victim.  My advice to motorists is to avoid the area at all costs.  People who live in the area drive through very slow, no matter what time it is. 

One of my gripes is that over the years since I have lived in the area, the city limit sign has been moved several times.  It is like the city council moves it when they feel like they can profit the most from its current location.  It once was about 1 1/2 miles outside of town in the small community called Ballard.  I could probably substantuate any rumor that you hear about Watts and the corruption.  For the most part it's true.  I have grown used to being lied to and decieved in this small town because everyone of power is a crook.

Withheld

Watts water bills outrageous
I would also like to reiterate the point about the water bills and the tickets.  I have compared my water bill to the Siloam Springs rates, which Watts gets their water from, and have asked, Why?  The response was, "we have so many leaks in our main, that we have to charge more to make up the difference in the loss".  I use a lot of water, but I don't believe that the rate should empty your bank account in order to pay your bill.   Also on the speed trap issue,  the Police officers have nothing to do, except for ticketing unsuspecting travelers.  You can call the police department and the response time is so slow, considering the size of the town itself (About the size of 5 football fields).  This is only just the tip of the iceberg! 

You want to talk about drugs, well they grow and cook the finest dope in the U.S.  I have heard of shirts printed with a marijuana leaf saying, "Where the hell is Adair County," seen all over the U.S.  If this doesn't say something about Adair county, then someone on the side of the law needs to wake up.  The county is full of the stuff, county and city officials turn their heads and take it themselves to be used or sold for personal profit.  The county needs to elect somebody that has the guts to take care of this mess.  No need to call anyone in the county or city about a drug related problem, they will take what is found and sell it or use it themselves, the OHP or OSBI needs to be called.  Well, enough of my soapbox, the police force in Watts needs to be reduced and the revenue should be used for the under-funded school.

D.A.
Watts, OK

Editor's Note:
Please do call OSBI, they are honest law enforcement who do give a damn.

Resident embarrassed by scandal
As a resident of Adair County I too am embarrassed by the scandal which surrounds the Watts Police Dept. Although, I have not been personally stopped I have several friends and family who have received outrageous fines from these so-called public servants. Many of these have been visiting from other states or towns in Oklahoma. At least two of these had not previously received a speeding ticket in all of their driving experience. 

Concerning the Commissioner perhaps he is partial to Watts since he graduated from the High School there. I am acquainted with those who were in his graduating class -- the Class of '69. These describe him as timid and in many ways a coward. Perhaps his entire law enforcement career has been based on the desire to hide behind the authority of a badge. Whatever his reasons, he has taken his authority beyond the bounds. 

Thank you for putting the editorial spotlight on this egregious problem. 

Donathan Hampton
Watts, OK

Keep pencils sharp and bad cops on their toes
I am a retired Deputy Sheriff from Idaho & Nevada, and a old tail light chaser. Traffic
enforcement is a hard thankless job. Traffic law is designed to be such that people will comply without a lot of prompting.  Limits are supposed to be set for what the road can handle within safety limits and population. Under normal circumstances only 10% of the drivers receive 90% of the traffic citations then only 3% are really bogging, and 1% truly dangerous.

Whenever a town sets things up like this, just to make money, it's wrong!  Now if there were reasons to slow the traffic down and the proper warning signs were posted, well then I would say fine. But a town of 300 people with 6 police officers?  No, they need to be hung out to dry, cause they are giving law enforcement a bad wrap.

Speed check areas are a necessity.  However, I worked in some areas, where the local government would ask me what to budget.  I had the same reply, "I write traffic tickets to bring the drivers attention to the proper authorities, so that their driving habits will be documented in the event of other problems.  Not to make money." 

Here in Idaho the fines all go to the county or city general fund, we have a hefty court fund that comes from it also. It would be very difficult to run a so called speed trap. Same with Nevada. (Hell, I even wrote the governor down there, and didn't catch any flack over it).  Keep up the good work, these bad cops need to be stopped.

Blackbeard <blkshoe@micron.net>

In regard: Watts speed trap.
Shut it down.

Jack, Tulsa

Hurting law enforcement
Back in the 70's, Jordan Valley, Oregon had a similar set up.  The Chief of Police made a deal where he got most or all of traffic fines, he then hired and paid the police force, had quite a going concern for awhile.  Jordan Valley did have a speeding problem on US-95 which runs through town, and it is a major north/south highway.  The town finally got smart and closed him down. Which is what the city should do here.

Watts has the actual need for one officer, or better yet, they should work with the local Sheriff to station a deputy there. (depending on state law)   All this kind of activity does is hurt law enforcement especially the all important traffic enforcement, where a large number of wanted persons and drunk drivers are caught.  Please mayor and city council members use some common sense.

Carl G. Ellis
Boise, ID

Same song different verse
Here's another speed trap story.  It is not as extreme as the situation in Watts, but it is another example of a town using traffic fines as a revenue source.

I was recently stopped by a speed trap in Caney, Oklahoma, which is on the east side of U.S. 69/75 a few miles south of Atoka.  I was returning from Dallas, and, as is my custom, decided to break up the monotony of the four lane by driving through a bypassed town I had noticed on my electronic map.  I drove into and around the town, noticing a few churches, a post office, a couple of businesses, and the school.  After a few minutes, I decided to return to the highway by driving west and up a hill on the main street.  Just as I crested the hill, I spotted a police car and saw its lights go on instantly. 

The officer, who seemed quite young, was very polite, but he claimed I was going 43 in a 30 MPH zone, and issued a fine for $77.  The alleged violation was on a stretch of road just inside the town limits, connecting the settled part of the town with US 69/75.  There was one odd thing about the ticket:  The address of the court where I was to appear for arraignment was a P.O. Box in Caney.  It was hard for me to imagine how a court could convene in a P.O. Box.

The next day I spoke with an attorney, who is from Caney, who practices in Atoka.  When I told her about the situation, her reaction was one of dismay and embarrassment.  She told me that the town had only had a police officer for nine months or so, and that most of the people he tickets are locals and farmers who pass through town to get to US 69/75.  In her opinion, the officer was trying to prove himself, and in the process was alienating a lot of townsfolk who could be of help to him in a real emergency.  She referred me to Jason Serner, an attorney in Durant who serves part-time as the town's municipal court judge.  Mr. Serner reminded me that I could contest the ticket if I wished, but if I chose to plead he could enter a minutes deferring judgment until the next municipal court date, on condition that I pay the fine and abide by all laws.  (An easy condition to meet, as I have no intention of entering the town of Caney again.)  The town would not notify Oklahoma Dept. of Public Safety of the ticket, and so it would not affect my insurance rates. Mr. Serner told me that the town has had hard times and, provided your driving wasn't endangering anyone, was only interested in the money.

He also said he had told the town to change the court address on the ticket to the street address.  (I may have been able to challenge the ticket on those grounds, but it would have cost me more and gained me nothing.)  I asked him if Federal funds were paying for Caney's police officer; he didn't know, but said another town he represents is getting Federal funds.

So I pled nolo contendere, paid the fine by mail, and in a few days got a receipt and a copy of the court minutes reflecting what Mr. Serner had told me on the phone.  Everything was handled politely enough, but I'm still a bit miffed that towns are using traffic laws to raise money rather than to protect the public.  I'm also a bit angry with myself: Unlike more notorious speed traps on 75, Caney is entirely avoidable if you stay on the highway; if it weren't for my curiosity about the town I wouldn't be out $77 and the price of several phone calls.  I have to wonder: Has Clinton's "100,000 new police officers" plan turned into "10,000 new speed traps"?  What a legacy!

Mike Bates
Tulsa, OK

Watts stink is true!
I read the article on the Watts speed trap and I would have to say that every stinking bit of it is true and something needs to be done.  I have to drive to Siloam Springs Ark. sometimes and I just hate driving through that town!  I make sure that I go at least five miles under the posted speed limit (40 m.p.h.) just to make sure that it won't be me getting a ticket next.  When I've driven through there I only see one police car and he's always sitting in one spot. That's at that old gas station between the store and the gas pump.  What is going to come out of the article anyway? Is something going to be done or not?

Jennifer Cheater
Indian Capital Technology Center

Wrongfully accused
I have read all the stories about Watts police dept. and it makes feel they are being wrongfully accused.  I know they are not the greatest police dept. but they don't write you a ticket for going only 1 mph over the speed limit either.  In Watts you only get a ticket for speeding if you go 10+ mph over the limit.  9- will get you a warning depending on attitude.  This was last year too.  Maybe things have changed since then, but I think it's unfair to Watts.  If you don't want a ticket from Watts DO NOT SPEED.

P'oed
Watts, Ok

Editor's Note:
We do not usually print letters without at least knowing a real name, but we are making this exception for you because you make a valid point -- if true.  But, how would you know what the rules are within the department unless you work for the department?

The big joke
The Watts speed trap is a big joke to local residents.  We all know 40 MPH means 40 not 41.  The trick is to get on the brakes as fast as possible and not coast from 65 MPH to 40 MPH.  But seriously folks, they do a great job of keeping local livestock off the highway.  I guarantee nothing passes though Watts that is not speed checked. Bicyclists even have to slow down.  We all have a boss so the officers are probably not the root of the problem, but don't ask Larry Adair (State Rep.) he shouldn't admit knowing.  For that matter just ask the local residents, we will laugh as we tell you tales.  For fun we might even build bleachers for spectators, paid admission of course, when the new 4-lane profit center comes to town.  I hope everyone calls in to report their local speed trap.  I would like to print a map like the route the "Route 66" map showing the great speed traps.  I am going to call it:  "THE GREEN COUNTRY TOUR GUIDE" You better have some green in tour pocket if you come through our town! 

Name Withheld

Unbelievable
I can not believe that the great State of Oklahoma lets this kind of government abuse go on. The Watts police department should be arrested and charged under federal racketeering laws. This is election time and Governor Keating should be held responsible for this in-justice. These guys are no better than any common criminal.

I am from upstate New York, but Oklahoma is my preferred place to live. I lived in Jenks,  for 7 great years. I am going to send the State Legislature a letter letting them know something needs doing right this minute. It's to bad that a few rotten apples can destroy a nice place as Oklahoma. The people better get to writing and calling the elected officials and stop this stupid act of injustice. The people of Oklahoma have a right to the best not the worst justice system.

Larry Brown

Calcium, NY

We "Duke Boys" may fight
I'm the Army now, but Watts is my home.   My dad was once the Watts Chief of Police and it makes me sick to sit and watch as people get pulled over time and again.  I was home in July, but  I hardly ever went through Watts for the simple reason my truck is tagged in North Carolina.  I know I would of been pulled over even if I did not do anything wrong.  Now, I know about this speed trap, but what about other people on vacation or business?  It would damn sure ruin a vacation.  The people of Oklahoma need to pass a speed trap law just like Arkansas.

The Chief Of Police now ain't worth a plug nickel same as Commissioner Fain.  Mr. Wofford referred to them as BOSS and ROSCOE and if something ain't done soon my brother-in-law and I are going to become the Duke boys.  I'm in North Carolina, but I can take leave for a few days.  He has a fast Chevy Nova that can out run those Crown Vic's.

It is stupid that something hasn't been done before now, but if not by the end of the year, look for us to blow through Watts just begging for one of Watts "finest" to come after us.  My dad taught me how to drive and I can out drive those "ossifers."  I can say I'm just crazy enough to try it too. 

Buck Simmons

U.S. Army & Watts, OK

Watts is small potatoes
You should leave Watts alone they are just a small part of the trouble in Adair County.

Sheriff Hartshorne lied and cheated people to get elected to office. He has hired people who have no training.  They can't even find addresses in this County.  If they get lucky and find you they don't know what to do when they get there. 

Back in January I tried to get a Grand Jury to look into the Sheriff's Department, but I was unable to do so.  We needed 1,600 signatures and with the Sheriff and his so-called officers telling the people around here they better not sign -- we came up short.  I was able to get 1,111 but not the 1,600 needed.  The petition was based on Sheriff Hartshorne taking money for a bounty while on duty and letting officers use police vehicles for personal use (seen at a bar).  I have signed statements to back all this and lots more up, but I couldn't get anyone to do anything.  I tried the Judge and the D.A. but didn't get anywhere.

With all the Sheriff's Office has done to this County your paper wants to pick on Watts.  I know Fain and he has done a good job at Watts and he should be left alone so he can get everything worked out there.  I have lots of statements to back up everything that I say.  I have been on the television news and in the Stilwell newspaper and I will be happy to tell you just what is wrong. I worked for the Sheriff's Office for 4 years before Hartshorne was Sheriff and for 6 mo. after he became Sheriff and I even helped to get him elected.  That is why I know that he lied and cheated to get in as Sheriff.

Debbie Neugin

Stilwell, OK

Speed trap immoral
I think that the speed trap is definitely immoral!  It's one thing for an officer of the law to do his job by patrolling to keep the peace.  But, for law enforcement to maintain a money making agenda is immoral!  I am from the Northeast corner of Oklahoma and I have lots of family there, that is why I have taken a keen interest in this issue. 

Susan Jackson

Sarasota, Florida

Follow the money
It is rumored that even though Gary Fain has filed bankruptcy, he has cattle hidden in Tahlequah.  Fain drives brand new personal vehicles and recently bought a 4-wheeler with cash in 100 dollar bills.  It is also said that he has bragged about having money hidden in a deep freeze.  Again, it is just rumor but to each rumor there is the possibility of truth.

Name Withheld

More Watts corruption
Great article on the corruption of Watts!  Just recently, the law of Watts tried to show its muscle in a legal battle over a legal land lease with a farmer in the area.  The farmer had a legal land lease pending with the City of Watts, which he used for hay production for his cattle operation.  However, someone in the law enforcement at Watts wanted to dispute the lease (and possibly utilize the land for himself?) and arrested the farmer for criminal tresspass on his own leased property!  A judge recently ruled in favor of the farmer.  It's good to hear that justice can prevail in some instances! 

Vince Pianalto

Fayetteville

Watts Water Bills Worse 
If you think they collect just on tickets, you should try receiving our water bills we receive..we probably have the highest water bills around.. I live in Watts too, and am sure if you asked any residents who have our water service, they would agree.

Name Withheld

Thankful in Arkansas
This speed trap is a problem that deserves immediate change.  This makes me thankful I live in Arkansas so that when things get out of control, the Highway Patrol steps in.

Dan Hendrix

Elkins, AR