In response to rising complaints from residents about student driving behavior, Elmhurst police have intensified their monitoring efforts outside York Community High School during lunch hours. Over the past week, officers have pulled over numerous students, issuing both tickets and warnings for traffic violations.
One senior at York reported receiving a ticket for failing to make a complete stop at the intersection of S Berkeley and W Alma St. “I was driving to lunch with my friends when we suddenly saw flashing lights behind us,” she stated. “I thought I did a full stop, but apparently, it wasn’t enough.” The student now faces a $160 fine, which she intends to contest in court.
Local residents had expressed concerns over students allegedly blowing through stop signs and speeding, prompting the increased police presence. While officials report some improvement in driving behavior among students, many are frustrated with the tickets issued for what they consider minor infractions. “It’s so unnecessary; a warning would be just fine,” commented another student who received a $190 ticket for a similar violation. “They should focus on drivers who pose a real danger on the road.”
The challenge remains for authorities to strike the right balance between enforcing traffic laws and fostering a cooperative environment that allows students to learn from their mistakes. Moving forward, open dialogue between the community, school officials, and law enforcement may be essential in addressing concerns while promoting responsible driving behavior among students.