JPD increases patrols in school zones - MSNewsNow.com - Jackson, MS

JPD increases patrols in school zones

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By Jewell Hillery - bio | email
JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -

When you see these flashing lights on the street in a school zone "slow down," said JPD Deputy Police Chief Eric Wall.

 The Jackson Police Department is collaborating with the Jackson School District and a group of parents to increase safety for JPS students when they head back to class Friday.

"Just parents and the community should be aware of slowing down in school zones because child safety is a big issue" said Demetria White, a Jackson resident who is a part of a JPS community group called "All Eyes on Me."

Starting Friday you'll notice an increase in police cracking down on drivers traveling more than 15 miles per hour through school zones.

"Zero tolerance that means if you get stopped going through that school zone you will get cited," said Deputy Chief Wall.

 Hefty fines come along with school zone speeding. Driving up to nine miles per hour or more over the speed limit will cost you close to $170 dollars.

Speeding  35 miles per hour or more over the speed limit will cost you $325.50.

If you're caught speeding through a school zone, not only do you face a fine but your insurance is also likely to go up.

"Moving violations can cause your insurance to increase," said Deputy Chief Wall.

Another important safety issue involves school buses. Last fall Richland fifth grader Allen Lutrick was killed after a driver didn't stop for a stopped school bus. If you do that, officers want you to know the fine for the first conviction is up to $750 dollars and the possibility of going to jail.

"We're asking the motorist to slow down watch out for these children," said Deputy Chief Wall.

Fines for speeding in a school zone are as follows:

  • Up to 9 mph over the speed limit is a $168.50 fine
  • 10 mph over the speed limit is a $178.50 fine
  • 15 mph over the speed limit is a $203.50 fine
  • 20 mph over the speed limit is a $238.50 fine
  • 35 mph and over the speed limit is a $325.50 fine

    • In addition to more enforcement outside the classroom...JPS and the Mississippi Department of Education are also working inside the schools to meet an accreditation deadline by November.

     During a press conference on Wednesday, JPS Superintendent Dr. Cedrick Gray said the district is working daily to make sure the deadline is reached.

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