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By Miguel Martinez

LAS CRUCES — The Las Cruces Police Department added 155 citations to its roster during its latest operation from December 11-24 through its Strategic Traffic Enforcement Program.

The latest round had officers focused on red light and speeding violations around major shopping centers. Officials said other offenses cited included no proof of insurance, seatbelt violations, driving without a license among several others.

The S.T.E.P. grant helps to fund overtime pay hours for officers who volunteer to keep city streets safe. The grant for 2007 was $18,000 to pay for more than 545 hours of traffic enforcement.

Thegrantawardfor the new year was set at $23,000, given by the New Mexico Traffic Safety Bureau. For 2008, the grant expires September 30.