If you’ve been caught speeding through a school zone in Hillsborough County, Florida, it’s time to double-check the date on your citation. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is issuing refunds and dismissals for some incorrect violations.
The affected school zones include those near Plato Academy, Citrus Park Elementary School, and Sgt. Smith Middle School. Recently, it was discovered that 2,021 drivers were mistakenly issued citations due to a change in early release schedule at Plato Academy. The school had canceled its Monday early releases, meaning some drivers were wrongly ticketed during times when school was not in session.
Specifically, if you received a ticket for speeding in a school zone on a Monday between 1:26 p.m. and 2:56 p.m. near these schools, you are eligible for a refund or a dismissal letter. This correction comes as a relief to many, ensuring they aren’t penalized for an error beyond their control.
“It doesn’t make sense to get a ticket for something you didn’t do or during a time that wasn’t school hours,” expressed Tommy D’Elia, a local business owner affected by this issue. His sentiment echoes the frustration felt by those who have faced unwarranted citations.
They said anyone who received a school zone violation on those Mondays between 1:26 p.m. and 2:56 p.m. near those three schools will be refunded or will receive a dismissal letter.
“It doesn’t make sense to get a ticket for something you didn’t do or a time that wasn’t school hours,” said Tommy D’Elia, who owns a business near the schools.
The Sheriff’s Office partners with RedSpeed for the program and said anyone impacted will receive their money automatically with the vendor mailing the dismissal letters and issuing the refunds.
These violations are sent to drivers who go 10 m.p.h. over the limit when the school lights are flashing.
Right now, the sheriff’s office is still investigating whether the lights were flashing or off when people got cited.
Tommy D’Elia has his barbershop near the schools.
“On this strip, in particular, you have the middle school, and the elementary school, and then Sickles down the road, then Plato across the street,” he said.
He said he makes surer to never speed during a school zone.
“I’m ultra-aware of it just because I’m here every day and I see people getting pulled over all of the time,” he said.
For all other citations, to dispute or pay them, you can click here.
HCSO said they are working with their partners to ensure accuracy going forward.
For more on the program, click here.
