In 4-day Thruway patrol, State Police issue 816 tickets to drivers using cell phones

State Police issued 816 traffic tickets during its four-day blanket patrol of drivers illegally using cell phones while behind the wheel, the agency announced today.

Police targeted drivers on the state Thruway during "Operation Hang Up" from April 21st through April 24th. Drivers who violated state law requiring hands-free cell phone were issued tickets.

Major Robert Meyers, commander for Troop T, the state police unit overseeing the Thruway, said drivers should expect similar patrols and initiatives throughout the spring and summer.