The van is called Safe Speed; civilians (I think) employed by the Parish Gov't. The van is not a speed trap so much as a speed deterrent, and quite effective. Speeders caught receive enforceable tickets.

As noted above the van is owned by the city/parish government . It is a money maker for the city/parish and has nothing to do with the city police. There are also a number of red light and speed camers throught the city ( Note! not in the parish) The system is owned and operated by a private company who issues the ticket. They make money and share some with the city/parish government. There have been a number of bills introducted in the Louisiana Legislature to ban these cameras. It is all about the money. The ticket does not go any where--not on on driver's license or anywhere else--so there is no deterrent. No city offical has been able to provide any stats that show the speed vans or cameras had been a benefit to the driving public or in fact changed driving behavior or reduced accidents. There have been no studies before and after to compare with or with out the van and cameras. The Northwestern Traffic Institute has several studies proving that speed alone does not cause accidents. It is cheaper to use the van and cameras rather than hire more police ,buy more police cars and equipment. If a policeman makes a traffic stop--he may also find drugs,contraband ,no seat belt use, a drunk driver, a suspended license, no insurance, vehicle defects(i.e. worn tires, no head lights),etc. Which is more effective for your tax dollars? It's all about the dollar--not public safety!