NJ judge quizzes contractor in traffic camera suit

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — A representative of a firm that installs and runs the state’s red-light cameras had some good news for motorists yesterday — not that any were around to hear it during a proceeding attended by only attorneys in a federal courtroom.

Charles Callari said drivers who see a flash go off as they drive through intersections when they’re sure they’ve beaten the light are probably right. He says the flash is likely just a diagnostic test to reset the cameras.

U.S. District Judge Peter Sheridan yesterday heard from attorneys for the plaintiff as well for Callari’s employer, American Traffic Solutions. Lawyers for several towns also are present.

Callari says roughly 50 percent of the pictures snapped at intersections don’t result in summonses after going through a required review by local police.

The cameras installed in nearly two dozen towns in New Jersey have raked in millions of dollars in fines but have generated an equal amount of controversy. Yesterday’s hearing came out of a lawsuit filed last year by a Jackson Township resident who sued ATS and the town of East Windsor after getting an $85 ticket.