Expired tags are a significant issue for law enforcement. In fact, it’s the reason many people get pulled over for traffic stops. Because of this, ensuring that you renew your vehicle tags should be a top priority. Recently, Colorado issued a crackdown on people who drive vehicles with out-of-date registrations. Since then, car registrations have soared. 

Expired car tags are a massive problem for law enforcement and the community

According to 9 News, the Denver Police Department recently cracked down on expired tags in the city. From July 15 until one month later, drivers who failed to renew their vehicle tags could face fines of $95 for the offense. Since the monthlong enforcement campaign, vehicle registrations have risen by 30%—11,000 more than the previous month. This move came after several complaints from people in the city. 

While cracking down on expired tags is necessary, the City of Denver has other plans for the community. In May, the chief announced plans that would see police officers not conduct traffic stops for “low-level traffic enforcement.” However, the change in going after people for failing to renew their vehicle tags does the opposite. 

The Denver Police Chief had this to say, “When people obey the rules, they want other people to obey the rules. I am sensitive to that being a reasonable desire. But I still think that at the end of the day, we need to make sure that we focus our officers on things that are most important.”

During the enforcement campaign, police officers conducted traffic stops and cited about 400 people for expired tags. This is great news because it means more people feel compelled to register their expired vehicles after being pulled over. The problem is that this crackdown makes it harder for police officers to focus on more serious issues. 

The Denver Police Chief continues, “If you have officers that are conducting a bunch of low-level stops, not only is there potential for disparate impact, but also you are spending your time doing those things, rather than being available to respond to emergency calls for service and patrolling high-crime neighborhoods.”

Based on reports, it seems the Police Chief is hopeful the month-long enforcement period has been enough to show people the importance of not using expired tags. However, the agency would be open to pursuing similar measures in the future if needed. Still, people should know they won’t be in the clear if they happen to be pulled over with expired tags.