- Speed Monitoring: CCSO VIPS, who observe vehicles exceeding the posted speed limits within school zones, and gathering the essential data.
- Data Processing: This information is then returned to CCSO, where dedicated volunteers process the data and prepare warning letters for review and signature by Sheriff Ken Furlong.
- Community Outreach: The letters are mailed to violators, encouraging voluntary compliance to enhance safety and reduce speeds in school zones without receiving a citation or fine.
Commitment to Pedestrian Safety
The CCSO VIPS program also prioritizes pedestrian and student safety. Volunteers work diligently to:
Educate the Public: Inform students and parents about safe crossing practices at crosswalks near Carson City Schools.
Enhance Visibility: Ensure that crosswalks are well-marked and that drivers remain vigilant for pedestrians utilizing the marked crosswalks.
CCSO VIPS Patrol Officer Nathan Rakestraw says; “For the past year and a half, I have been actively engaged in efforts to control vehicle speeds in active school zones. The campaign began with the acquisition of the latest lidar and camera equipment available to law enforcement. Since then, the primary focus has been to increase public awareness of the heavy pedestrian traffic present around schools during active school zone hours. The emphasis has been to maintain the proper speeds. Over the course of the past year, I have observed not only an overall reduction in vehicle speeds, but also a decrease in the number of vehicles traveling at excessive speeds.”
Mobile Radar Unit Deployment
In addition to the LIDAR efforts, other CCSO VIPS Patrol volunteers are deployed with a mobile radar unit (MRU). This initiative aims to:
Increase Awareness: The radar unit is strategically moved around Carson City to alert motorists about their speed in areas known for traffic issues. Over the past couple months, the CCSO MRU has been staged within the school zones to bring awareness and reminders to those traveling through school zones of the importance to drive at the posted speed limits.
Promote Safe Driving: By reminding drivers to adhere to speed limits, the program seeks to foster a culture of safety on our roads.
2026 CCSO VIPS Patrol Traffic Safety Statistics
So far in 2026, the CCSO VIPS Traffic Safety Program has reported significant engagement in traffic safety initiatives, contributing to a noticeable improvement in compliance and awareness within the Carson City community.
February: 86 School Zone Violations Recorded 69% decrease from 2025
March: 155 School Zone Violations Recorded 54% decrease from 2025
April: 82 School Zone Violations Recorded 50% decrease from 2025
The Carson City Sheriff’s Office is committed to making our community safer through proactive measures and community involvement. By leveraging the dedication of our volunteers, we aim to create a safer environment for our children and all citizens.
For further information about the CCSO Traffic Safety Program or to get involved, please contact Volunteer Coordinator / Reserve Commander Rob Rikalo at (775) 283-7810 or rrikalo@carsoncity.gov.
