The Dunellen Police Department disguised an officer as a roadside shrub to catch drivers using handheld phones on the 100 block of North Washington Avenue. Over a six-hour sting, officers issued 74 citations for distracted driving. The Facebook announcement drew both amusement and criticism, with some calling the tactic clever and others alleging entrapment or revenue motives. The operation has sparked debate about road safety, policing tactics and legal fairness.
New Jersey Officer Disguised as Shrub Issues 74 Distracted-Driving Tickets in Six Hours
Dunellen Borough Police Department/Facebook
The Dunellen Police Department in New Jersey used an unconventional sting to catch drivers violating the state's handheld cellphone ban: an undercover officer disguised as a roadside shrub.
Dunellen Borough Police Department/Facebook
According to a Facebook post published July 29, the operation took place on the 100 block of North Washington Avenue, a busy stretch for both vehicles and pedestrians. During a six-hour enforcement window the disguised officer and supporting personnel issued 74 citations for handheld cellphone use. The department said the goal was to improve road safety and enforce New Jersey's prohibition on using handheld devices while driving.
Dunellen Borough Police Department/Facebook
"The results? Our 'shrub' was busy. We issued 74 citations to drivers distracted by their devices in a six-hour window. Let this be a reminder: That text or notification can wait. Keep your eyes on the road, not your screen!"
The stunt generated a mix of reactions online. Many residents reacted with amusement and praised the creative approach to reducing distracted driving. Others criticized the tactic, arguing it could distract motorists, border on entrapment, or be perceived as a revenue-generating maneuver. Some commenters urged the department to use similar enforcement against speeding and crosswalk violations.
Legal experts and observers noted that while creative enforcement can deter dangerous behavior, tickets issued through unconventional tactics may invite court challenges depending on how officers documented violations and how local judges interpret entrapment or fairness concerns.
Bottom line: The Dunellen "shrub" operation highlights public frustration with distracted driving and ignites debate over unconventional policing methods — balancing deterrence and safety against questions of fairness and unintended distraction.
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