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On The Other Hand, It IS Supposed To Be A Deterrent
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Do traffic fines fit the crime? A woman complained to the NBC affiliate in San Diego that her red-light-camera violation -- she says she made a legal right turn but got a ticket for running the light -- led to an excessive fine of $490, and the judge didn't think it should be reduced. So she asked where all that money goes, and here's the breakdown: $100 fine, $310 "penalty assessment and surcharge," $35 "criminal conviction fee," $4 for emergency medical programs, and $1 for night court costs. Note that $310 "assessment and surcharge." What does that even mean? That's how the legislature gets extra money. They say it goes to all sorts of law enforcement programs, but good luck tracing it to anything in particular. So... are traffic fines too high in your jurisdiction? (KNSD-TV/San Diego)
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