Dick Uliano, wtop.com
WASHINGTON – Speed enforcement cameras in Silver Spring were targeted by vandals over the weekend, but it wasn’t long before technicians had the high-tech devices busting speeders again.
Montgomery County police say the vandals attacked three portable speed cameras on 16th Street early Sunday morning.
While one of the cameras continued to operate, two of the speed cameras, encased in wheeled aluminum and glass cabinets, were knocked on their faces. Technicians righted them and restored them to service in a matter of hours.
Police say it was an isolated incident and the county’s 92 speed cameras remain secure.
There are dozens of speed cameras operating in the District and about 75 in neighboring Prince George’s County. Virginia does not allow speed cameras.
Residents in neighborhoods seem to welcome speed cameras, grateful that they are slowing down drivers. Some motorists in recent months have taken out their frustrations on the speed cameras, however, using sling shots, spray paint and even setting one on fire.
Some of the speed cameras in Prince George’s County are equipped with surveillance cameras to check for vandals. While Montgomery County does not have surveillance cameras at the moment, Capt. Paul Starks, public information officer for Montgomery County police, says the county may consider installing them in the future.
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