Man only gets a $50 fine for changing traffic lights

[dutchmasterflex]

We hate waiting for traffic lights to change as much the next driver (or pedestrian -- we have to cross streets, too, you know), but we doubt we'd ever try to take things into our own hands like Jason Niccum of Longmont, Colorado, did. Niccum picked up an Opticon -- an infrared light used by firefighters and other emergency responders to trigger traffic signals -- on eBay for about $100, and has been using it to cut his commuting time. That is, was using it, until local cops busted him after they noticed a consistent pattern of traffic-light disruptions at certain intersections. They nailed Niccum, and the town now plans to change the frequency used by traffic lights to block unauthorized signals (until, that is, someone comes out with a next-gen model). Niccum, despite getting stuck with a $50 fine, isn't exactly remorseful. "I guess in the two years I had it, that thing paid for itself," he told a local newspaper.

http://www.engadget.com/2006/04/18/opticon-toting-driver-gets-50-fine-for-changing-traffic-light/


I can't believe this guy got away with a $50 fine.. and I'm sure now everyone and their mothers will be trying to buy one of these devices off ebay.

[nthfinity]

the town has fined him; what he doesnt know is the FCC can come down with fines/prison time that make $50 seem like a fraction of a penny :!:

[ZfrkS62]

the town has fined him; what he doesnt know is the FCC can come down with fines/prison time that make $50 seem like a fraction of a penny :!:

The problem is, Infra-red isn't exactly a broadcast frequency, so the FCC can't do squat. Had it been a radio transmitter, it would have been a different story.

[RC45]

the town has fined him; what he doesnt know is the FCC can come down with fines/prison time that make $50 seem like a fraction of a penny :!:

The problem is, Infra-red isn't exactly a broadcast frequency, so the FCC can't do squat. Had it been a radio transmitter, it would have been a different story.

Yep - the feds don't regulate light waves.... yet.... ;)

[Mattk]

What's the FCC?

I wish I had something like that. :P

[nthfinity]

the town has fined him; what he doesnt know is the FCC can come down with fines/prison time that make $50 seem like a fraction of a penny :!:

The problem is, Infra-red isn't exactly a broadcast frequency, so the FCC can't do squat. Had it been a radio transmitter, it would have been a different story.

Yep - the feds don't regulate light waves.... yet.... ;)
owned by not reading carefully! IT could happen to you :wink: :P

sorry guys

however, there is talk of pushing FCC control over IR waves too... i dont think it will get anywere.

[dutchmasterflex]

I think depending on the town or state it can be a felony to use such devices or alter traffic lights. This guy was just lucky he wasnt in that town/state...

Look on ebay for an Opticon..

[Pokiou]

ok i want one!!!! i wonder if that will work here in australia :D :P

Pok

[komotar]

interesting.....that fiure is low.

I doub't firefighters, police ambulances use this here in slovenia....so I guess this thingy wouldn't doo any good...or would it??

[dutchmasterflex]

^^ hahaa

Dude, your Jabbas World addiction will only get worse and worse..