The town of Kersey installed a photo radar along Weld County Road 49, where there is a significant drop in the speed limit. This has caught a lot of speeders, but the real surprise came when these individuals learned the price of their tickets.
Many drivers learned that they had been fined $340 for going 25 mph or more over the limit. This high number shocked all of Colorado, so Steve Staeger, who is a reporter for 9NEWS, used his powers as an investigative journalist to question these large fines.
Staeger discovered that automated speed enforcement fines are generally capped at $40 on regular roads, according to Colorado law. The town of Kersey’s ordinance also states this, which went against the large tickets they were giving out. Staeger’s reporting on the issue took northern Colorado by storm, as it outraged the individuals who felt they were unlawfully charged. “Even though I wasn’t charged $340, I think it’s unfair that the speed trap is there because of how fast the speed drops,” said Blake Johnson (26).
When the report was released by 9NEWS, the town board of Kersey paused the 340 dollar citations. Over a long process of debate, the board decided to refund anyone who received the high ticket at any time. EHS teacher, Mrs.Stewart, said, “The ones in town don’t even register speeding until you are over 10 mph over the speed limit. I believe this is far more fair. I believe that [Kersey is] directly using it for money gain and it shouldn’t be allowed. Refunds to those who were charged higher than what is legally allowed per state is the minimum that Kersey could do for their people.”
This process is important not only for the individuals in Colorado, but everyone across the country. Staeger proved the power of investigative journalism in today’s world. He was able to publicly identify a law that was not being followed by Kersey’s government, and make a difference by simply informing the public. It shows the power of the people, and how all types of government or leadership are run by the people.
The first amendment grants all citizens the right to freedom of speech and the press, which is what allowed for Staeger to help citizens with the unlawful ticket prices. In a time when many citizens feel they have no control over what happens in places of power, this situation shows that the country is run by the people.
Investigative journalism was able to bring transparency to this situation as it clarified many legal debates. Without this, Kersey would have been able to continue to hand out these high-priced tickets unlawfully.
This impacts Eaton High School because it shows the power of investigative journalism at any level. Eaton Red Ink is a crucial class because it gives a voice to the students on issues that are impacting the town. Every type of journalism gives certain individuals a voice, so it is crucial for our world to continue investigative journalism. Without it, people forget the power they have and their ability to speak out to make a change.
