The Tucson Police Department is introducing a new method to report minor traffic issues without having to call 911.
Traffic Watch is a program designed for members of the community to report dangerous driving behaviors. This includes speeding, street racing, reckless driving, following too close and unsafe lane changes.
The tool is completely online. Respondents are asked to pinpoint where the incident took place and are given a list of options to describe what happened. Then, the site asks for information about the car in question.
Once a tip is submitted, an officer with TPD's Motor Unit will review the tip and decide what action to take. That could include a citation, an arrest, or a courtesy letter.
“If there is potential footage where we can identify who the driver is along with whatever infraction they’re committing on the roadway, potentially a citation could be issued," said Lieutenant Lauren Pettey.
Lt. Pettey wants to remind drivers to not use their phone while they're driving.
“A passenger could film or they could submit dash cam footage," said Lt. Pettey.
TPD reminds drivers that the option of calling 911 is still available if immediate response is needed.
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Faith Abercrombie is a reporter for KGUN 9. Before coming to KGUN, Faith worked as a videographer for the Phoenix Children's Hospital Foundation and as a reporter and producer on the youth suicide documentary, "Life is..." on Arizona PBS.
Share your story ideas with Faith by emailing faith.abercrombie@kgun9.com or by connecting on Facebook, or Twitter.
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Emma Miller is a producer for KGUN 9. Originally from Fair Lawn, New Jersey, Emma graduated from Fordham University in 2021 where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with a minor in Mandarin Chinese. In April 2021, Emma became the first woman researcher in MLB and NHL Network history. She joined the KGUN 9 family in August 2022 after falling in love with Tucson.
