From Art Campos:
Rocklin police are seeing some creative behavior and hearing a variety of opinions and excuses from those cited for violating a new law against using hand-held cell phones while driving.
During a grace period in July, when the new law went into effect, officers gave 77 verbal warnings to violators, said Rocklin Police Lt. Lon Milka. But this month they've issued 54 citations.
"People will think of just about anything to try to get out of a ticket," Milka said. "Our job is to hack our way through the excuses and enforce the laws."
Among the excuses and opinions Rocklin officers have heard, are:
• "I can't stand that stupid earpiece."
• "I haven't figured out how to use my Bluetooth yet."
• "My wife said I sounded like I was in a toilet so I switched back to cell."
• "I was waiting to get a ticket before I spend money on a Bluetooth."
• "The fine is just a business expense. I'll write it off."
• "Is it not more of a hazard to fumble around trying to get the ear thing in?"
• "I wasn't using my phone. I was just resting my head against it."
And one motorist tried to fool a motorcycle officer who spotted him using a cell phone, Milka said.
The driver "flipped his cell phone shut and acted as if he was using an electric shaver while driving," he said.
The quick thinking didn't prevent the driver from getting a citation, which carries a base fine of $20 for a first offense. Subsequent citations earn a $50 fine.
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