Florida Judge Rules Red Light Camera Tickets Are Unconstitutional

4 hours ago

A Broward County judge dismissed a red-light camera ticket, ruling the state law unconstitutional for shifting the burden of proof onto vehicle owners.
Judge Steven P. DeLuca found the law violates due process by presuming the registered owner is responsible unless proven otherwise.
The case involved a Sunrise citation where the defendant argued the statute unfairly required owners to prove they weren't driving.
The judge labeled red-light camera cases as 'quasi-criminal' due to potential penalties and impacts on driving records.
Attorney Joel Mumford noted the ruling could inspire challenges in other counties, potentially leading to broader changes if appealed.
Critics, including advocacy group StopTheCams, hailed the decision as a victory against unfair automated enforcement.
Supporters argue red-light cameras improve intersection safety, but opponents call for their removal, citing unfair penalties.
The ruling currently applies only to Broward County, but it may influence future legal challenges statewide.

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