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Dallas / Fort Worth Local News

Judge Could Reverse Decision On Red Light Cameras

Reporting
Carol Cavazos

DALLAS (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―

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A Dallas judge made a ruling last week that could put the brakes on red light cameras. Now that same judge has an opportunity to put his decision in reverse.

The Dallas judge agreed last week that ACS - the company that runs red-light cameras in the city of Dallas - needs a private investigators license. ACS asked the judge to reconsider.

"Unless they can pull a rabbit out of a hat, there is nothing that is going to change in this case," said attorney Lloyd Ward. He filed the civil suit in state district court.

Based on the initial decision in his favor, he filed two federal class action suits, which could affect thousands of drivers who paid millions of dollars in fines.

"The question is - can they find a way to exempt themselves from that statute," said Ward.

The City of Plano has looked into this before on behalf of its red light camera company RedFlex.

"There's statutory authority for cities to enter into agreements with red light camera enforcement, and they operate as an agent of the city," said Bruce Glasscock, Plano's Assistant City Manager.

Ward says cities are exempt. Red light camera companies are not on the list. Ultimately, the cities will wait for the courts to decide.

In the meantime, Glasscock says it would "be a big mistake" for drivers to refuse to pay their red-light tickets. However Ward says drivers should still try to fight them.

Attorneys on both sides file briefs Friday. A hearing is set for December 17. If the judge reverses his ruling, Ward will take the case to trial and let a jury decide.

CBS11TV.com Extra: Raw Police Chase Video

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