June 1, 2021—A New York police department is taking a new approach to some traffic stops.
Drivers stopped for minor mechanical violations in Saugerties, N.Y., might be issued repair vouchers instead of traffic tickets, the Daily Freeman reports.
"It's for those who are forced to decide between repairing the vehicle or putting food on the table or buying diapers for the baby, so the focus is really on those who can't afford to make these minor repairs, especially now with the added financial problems brought about by COVID-19," Saugerties Police Chief Joseph Sinagra said in a prepared statement.
Sinagra said the program's purpose is twofold: to cut struggling motorists a break, and to improve relationships between the public and police.
