SPARKS -- Earlier today the Sparks Police Department apologized to drivers for the use of an ill-advised sign that gives the perception that the Department uses speed traps.

Last week, a digital reader board was place on Vista Blvd, for northbound traffic, north of N. Los Altos advising drivers to slow down.  The board read "Speed Trap" ahead.  This language was used to encourage drivers to slow down, but in hind sight was ill-advised. 

Vista Blvd is a highly traveled road and the speed that drivers commonly travel is routinely 15 to 20 miles an hour over the posted speed limit.  The Sparks Police Department actively patrols that area for speeders due to the severity of accidents and complaints of speeding on Vista Blvd, but has never employed a speed trap tactic, nor will they ever. 

The reader board has been removed and the Sparks Police Department apologizes for the perception that the Sparks Police Department would condone any type of speed trap activities.