The audit confirms The Lens’ findings about the effect of the programs, which allow DAs to keep fines in exchange for dropping traffic tickets.
Southern Poverty Law Center files complaint on traffic diversion
Calcasieu Parish DA shares revenue from diverted traffic tickets with public defender
Louisiana DAs offer motorists a deal: Write us a check and we’ll dismiss your speeding ticket
Some people who get speeding tickets are given the option to write a check to the local district attorney’s office, which keeps the ticket out of court and off their driving record. The money stays with the DA. Public defenders, which rely on revenue from traffic tickets in court, say these diversion programs have hurt their budgets.