Fresno Police Issue 145 Tickets in Hands Free Enforcement

Fresno police announced on Dec. 8, 2025 that officers issued 145 citations for handheld cell phone violations during an enforcement operation conducted on Saturday, Dec. 6. The operation was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety and targeted violations of California's hands free law.

The citations were for drivers found using handheld devices while operating vehicles, an offense that carries monetary penalties under state law. The department reminded motorists that a second handheld violation within 36 months can add a point to a driving record. That point can have practical consequences for local drivers, including potential increases in insurance premiums and longer term impacts on license status for repeat offenders.

Local officials emphasized practical steps residents can take to avoid violations and reduce crash risk. Police urged motorists to pull over safely to take a call, or to stow phones before beginning to drive. The enforcement operation underscores a renewed emphasis on curbing distracted driving as part of broader traffic safety efforts funded at the state level.

The operation also signals to commuters, delivery drivers, parents driving children to school, and other frequent motorists in Fresno County that compliance with the hands free law is being actively monitored. For drivers who rely on phones for navigation or work communications, the reminder to set devices before driving or to use approved hands free systems is particularly relevant.

While the department did not release additional details about the locations or times of the stops, the number of citations issued in a single day illustrates the scope of enforcement activity under the OTS funded program. Residents concerned about citations or the implications of points on their driving records should consult the Department of Motor Vehicles or legal counsel for guidance on fines, appeals, and record consequences.

The enforcement follows statewide efforts to reduce traffic collisions linked to distracted driving, and serves as a local prompt to reassess habits behind the wheel. Fresno police have reiterated their message to the public, urging safe, focused driving to protect all road users.