Central Oregon MATT Issues 146 Citations for Distracted Driving in April

The Central Oregon Multi‑Agency Traffic Team (MATT) has concluded its Distracted Driving Awareness Month focused enforcement and education effort, which took place on three days in April: the 20th, 27th, and 28th. The Bend Police Department led and organized this focused effort.

During this county-wide operation, Central Oregon MATT, made up of officers, deputies, and troopers from Bend Police Department, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Sunriver Police Department, Black Butte Ranch Police Department, Redmond Police Department, and the Oregon State Police – Bend Command, concentrated on identifying and stopping distracted driving behaviors, particularly violations involving cell phones.

Across the three enforcement dates, Central Oregon MATT members conducted no fewer than 315 traffic stops, including:

135 stops for distracted driving/cell phone violations
146 citations issued
3 arrests, including 1 DUII arrest
10 drivers contacted who were operating with suspended driving privileges

As highlighted in previous releases, the Central Oregon Multi‑Agency Traffic Team focuses on collaborative, high‑visibility traffic enforcement and public education to reduce serious injury and fatal crashes across the region. Distracted driving — especially the use of cell phones — remains a significant contributing factor in both low‑speed collisions and high‑speed crashes with severe consequences.

Oregon law (ORS 811.507) prohibits drivers from holding or using a mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle. Penalties increase with repeated violations, and a third conviction within a 10‑year period is a Class B misdemeanor, carrying potential criminal penalties.

MATT encourages every driver to make attentive driving a habit. Even momentary distractions can have life‑altering outcomes.

Central Oregon MATT reminds everyone: “Slow down, phone down.”

This story is based on submitted information and has not been verified by our news team.