Are Metro Police officers allowed to talk on their cell phones while driving?
Do the same rules that we follow apply to them?
Mr. C
Yes, they can. Cell phone use by police in the course of their duties is legal under Nevada law.
There is an exception to the state law which prohibits cell phone use if “a law enforcement officer is using the cell phone within the course and scope of his or her employment.”
However, Metro has their own policy, which prohibits their officers from using a cell phone in a Dept. vehicle without a hands-free device “while the vehicle is in motion.”
This is a smart move for safety, and a great example by Metro.
If you see a violation of this policy, call 311 to report it. A supervisor will investigate your observation.
Of course, don’t call to report this if you are driving. Use a hands-free device, or wait until you park.
Remember, ever since Jan, 2012 – your first cell phone use offense is fifty bucks.
Second time $100, and the driver will get two points.
Third offense, $250 and four points.
My advice: Follow Metro’s lead, and pick up one of the 50 different kinds of hands-free devices on the market.
Brian