Judge Issues Permanent Order Blocking Traffic Enforcement Cameras

A Montgomery County judge has ruled new state restrictions on municipal traffic enforcement camera programs violate the Ohio constitution, granting the city of Dayton a permanent order blocking them. Common Pleas Judge Barbara Gorman says rules such as requiring police officers to be present when cameras are used violate the Ohio municipalities "home rule" powers of the constitution. It's the second ruling against the restrictions that took effect last month. A Lucas County judge earlier granted a preliminary injunction sought by the city of Toledo. Dayton and Akron have continued using photo enforcement without officers present, while other cities - including Columbus - have halted use pending the outcome of various lawsuits.