Officer caught texting and driving while department ramps up citations for distracted driving

CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Officers in Chillicothe are intensifying their enforcement of Ohio’s distracted driving law, which took effect on October 3, 2023. The law bans the use of electronic wireless communication devices while driving, including holding or supporting such devices with any part of the body.

Exceptions to the law include making emergency calls to law enforcement, hospitals, or fire departments; using a device while the vehicle is stationary and not in a travel lane; and using a device for navigation without manually entering information or holding the device.

On July 31, 2024, Chillicothe Police cited a driver for holding a cell phone while driving. The citation was issued for distracted driving under the new law. Officers can pull over motorists for illegal use of electronic devices, with enhanced penalties for violations leading to other moving infractions.

However, body cam footage reviewed by the Guardian has raised concerns about potential double standards within the Chillicothe Police Department. The footage shows an officer texting on his cell phone while driving, with both hands off the wheel and the vehicle in motion. This revelation has sparked questions about whether the department enforces distracted driving laws uniformly among its officers and the public.

There is a provision in the Ohio Revised Code that allows for exemptions to the distracted driving law. An officer can only use the electronic device as part of their official duties.