Authorities deployed fake speed cameras in Laurel, Md., Wednesday, hoping they can deter speeding, too.
The fakes look like every other mobile speed camera in Laurel, complete with police logo and camera lenses, but inside, they are empty.
Maryland law restricts most jurisdictions from putting speed cameras anywhere other than near schools, and they can only operate Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Laurel residents kept asking for more cameras in the neighborhoods, so Police Chief Richard McLaughlin had an idea.
“I purchased several decoy boxes,” he said. “They are the exact items we currently use for real speed cams but they're empty.”
They won’t generate any tickets, but police hope their presence will trick drivers into slowing down in neighborhoods.
Laurel police put two of the fake cameras on the streets, but if the plan works, expect more around the city.
Follow Mark Segraves on Twitter at @SegravesNBC4
