Cellphone Driving Ban Nets 27 Violators in Helena

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Police in Helena, Mont. say they have issued 27 citations in a little over a month following a cellphone ban that went into effect in January making it illegal to use hand-held electronic devices while driving or bicycling within city limits.

Lt. Steve Hagen told the Independent Record that 24 of the 27 receiving tickets pleaded guilty and paid a $25 fine.

Hagen says some drivers pulled over for violating the cellphone ban ended up in drug arrests or DUIs.

Hagen says some motorists violating the ban were let off with warnings, including a woman whose husband was in the hospital and she was trying to make arrangements while driving.