New York State Police ran a five-day effort from April 5 through April 10 to target distracted drivers, specifically drivers using cellphones.
The initiative was called Operation Hang Up, and sought out individuals texting or talking on their phones without a hands-free device. Officials say using cellphones while driving is now considered just as dangerous as speeding or impaired driving.
News 12 learned that more than 2,000 tickets for distracted driving were administered statewide. In Hudson Valley, that number was 178.
Officials say that even though the initiative has ended, they plan to remain hypervigilant about distracted driving.