Heeding public perceptions, Sheriff Curtis Hill shortly after
the new year implemented an office policy that bars deputies from
talking on cell phones while driving despite the state law’s
exemption for sworn officers.
HOLLISTER
Heeding public perceptions, Sheriff Curtis Hill shortly after the new year implemented an office policy that bars deputies from talking on cell phones while driving despite the state law’s exemption for sworn officers.
Since July 2008, California citizens have been subject to citations for talking on cell phones in moving vehicles without a hands-free device, and as of Jan. 1, residents also have been prohibited from texting while driving.
“I don’t think it’s a good policy to be doing something that the citizens aren’t allowed to do,” said Hill, in noting he started the office rule at the start of 2009.
Hill explained that if employees carry cell phones paid for by the department – there are 52 of them issued throughout the office – they are told to use hands-free devices. For others who are not issued cell phones but carry personal ones, Hill said they are required to either pull over to talk or buy their own hands-free devices.
Hill said in the public’s eye, it is unfair for authorities to use cell phones when driving while “John Q Citizen on the street” cannot do the same.
“I’ve heard those complaints and I understand it,” Hill said.
The sheriff also noted that when he drives to other counties for office business in a sheriff’s vehicle, he does not use the diamond lane despite authorities being exempt from those restrictions as well.
“I don’t do that,” he said. “I’m not going anywhere in a hurry. Why should I take advantage of the diamond lane? That’s all part of the whole thing.”
Capt. Bob Brooks at the Hollister Police Department said city officers follow the state law and use them when necessary, but that they are instructed to use cell phones for police business and not for “ordering from Domino’s and stuff.”
