The number of traffic stops across Illinois has dropped by 6 percent and the number of ticketed motorists fell by 11 percent, according to a published report.
The Chicago Tribune analyzed state data on traffic tickets from 2008 to 2010.
Authorities say there isn't a single explanation for the change. Many say that the drop in the number of officers could be part of the reason. Others say cameras in vehicles and redeploying officers to crash hot spots are other explanations.
Some of the biggest drops were reported by the Chicago Police Department. The agency stopped 38,000 fewer motorists, around 19 percent less, and ticketed 46,000, or 30 percent, fewer.
A Chicago police spokeswoman says safety remains a priority.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
