From: cookieman2000@yahoo.com on Tuesday, July 27, 1999
State: Pennsylvania
Story: I was issued a speeding ticket last August in Sewickley Heights Borough, 45.7 in a 25 mile zone. Borough might be a stretch... there is no "town" in this ultra-exclusive suburb of Pittsburgh. In fact the police station is located inside the grounds of a prestigious country club. From the point I turned onto the Glen Mitchel Road to the boarder of the town line is some 2/10ths of a mile. I was pulled over in the adjoining town and told I had be "clocked" using vascar. When I protested I was told to tell it to the judge. I appeared in Mag. Dist. 05-3-02 before the honorable James E. Russo. Feeling somewhat confident in my amassed internet-found information on vascar, I was ready to plead my case. After the officer went through his recantation of time, location, certification, etc. it was my turn.
Taking a deep breath, I proceeded to get tongue-tied and apologized in advance to the court for being " nervous".
The Honorable Judge Russo then informed me that ..." I would be more than nervous if I took up too much of his time".... Plan B.....I offered up what evidence I could about the fact that 45 minutes after the ticket was given the police car in question was having its battery replaced, and in lieu of possible electrical problems the readings quite possibly could have been affected. His Honor then questioned the officer as to wether the car was having electrical problems and the officer said "no". I asked how the officer had the expert ability to attest to the accuracy of the electrical system, the judge said..:" He said No.... now move on". I then presented information relating to the element of human error inherent in reflex speed timings.. The judge said.. "Enough...guilty of 35 in a 25 zone. Pay the clerk some $120.00".
They have sworn to serve you
