Carlsbad police plan parking crackdown

CARLSBAD, N.M. (AP) - Carlsbad police officers will be cracking down on drivers who illegally park in handicapped spaces this month.

The police department has launched the Handicap Parking Blitz in response to complaints from area residents with disabilities.

Carlsbad Police Lt. Jarod Florez says the fine for parking in a handicapped space without proper vehicle identification can range from $100 to $300. Violators can also be towed.

Florez says that by law, police officers can enforce handicapped parking violations - even on private property, such as business parking lots.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, anyone with mobility limitations who qualifies with the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division is allowed access to handicapped spaces.

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Information from: Carlsbad Current-Argus