Drivers in New Jersey were caught off guard during a unique traffic enforcement campaign after a police officer disguised as a shrub helped identify motorists allegedly using their phones behind the wheel.
The unusual operation, conducted by the Dunellen Borough Police Department, resulted in 74 traffic citations during a six-hour enforcement detail aimed at reducing distracted driving in a busy downtown area.
Officer Wore Shrub Costume During Traffic Operation
The enforcement effort took place on Wednesday in the 100 block of North Washington Avenue in Dunellen, New Jersey, a borough located in Middlesex County.
As part of the operation, one officer dressed in a leafy shrub costume and positioned himself along the roadside to observe passing traffic.
When the disguised officer spotted drivers allegedly violating New Jersey’s handheld cellphone law, nearby officers stopped the vehicles and issued citations.
Police Shared the Operation on Social Media
Following the enforcement detail, the Dunellen Borough Police Department posted photos and information about the operation on Facebook.
The department joked about the unusual disguise, writing:
“Did you spot our ‘shrub’ today? If you had your head buried in your phone, probably not!”
Officials used the post to remind drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and encourage motorists to keep their attention on the road.
Busy Downtown Area Chosen for Enforcement
Police said they intentionally selected the 100 block of North Washington Avenue because it is a high-traffic, pedestrian-heavy section of downtown Dunellen.
According to the department, the goal was to improve safety for both drivers and pedestrians while enforcing New Jersey’s Handheld Cell Phone Law.
Officials said distracted driving poses a significant risk in areas where vehicles and pedestrians frequently interact.
74 Drivers Ticketed in Six Hours
During the six-hour operation, officers issued 74 citations to drivers accused of distracted driving.
The officer dressed as a shrub worked alongside other officers stationed nearby, who conducted the traffic stops after receiving alerts about suspected violations.
Police did not release additional information about other traffic violations or whether any arrests were made during the operation.
Focus on Distracted Driving
Law enforcement agencies across the United States have increasingly adopted creative enforcement strategies to discourage distracted driving, particularly the illegal use of handheld cellphones while operating a vehicle.
Officials say such campaigns are designed to increase compliance with traffic laws and reduce crashes caused by drivers taking their eyes off the road.
The Dunellen Borough Police Department said the operation was intended to protect members of the community and reinforce the importance of attentive driving in one of the borough’s busiest pedestrian corridors.
While the shrub disguise surprised many motorists, police emphasized that the campaign’s primary purpose was to improve roadway safety and remind drivers to avoid using handheld devices while behind the wheel.
