Residents critical of traffic stops in small town

Residents critical of traffic stops in small town Kiowa - Some residents in Kiowa say they're embarrassed their community is known far and wide as a speed trap.<br><br>In fiscal year 2001, the town

Saturday, April 12th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Residents critical of traffic stops in small town Kiowa - Some residents in Kiowa say they're embarrassed their community is known far and wide as a speed trap.

In fiscal year 2001, the town collected 97,000 dollars in fines, mainly from traffic tickets. The money accounted for 22 percent of the town's budget.

Police Chief Michael Sexton says it's department policy to impound the vehicle of someone driving with a suspended license.

Savanna Truck Stop owner Lynn Cuzalina says Kiowa police have been dumping stranded motorists at her business off U-S 69 after impounding their cars.

A Texas motorist was stopped last week for going 56 in a 50 mile-per-hour zone. The driver's vehicle was impounded because he had a suspended license and no proof of insurance.

An officer left the family, including two children, at the truck stop.