Reuters is reporting that
A sharp drop in arrests and fines in New York may prove costly for the city but it could already be hurting some traffic lawyers and bail bonds firms, which are seeing their phones ring less often as fewer people are in trouble and need help.
As a result of a deliberate work slowdown by police, as a means of protest against the city’s mayor:
Revenues for … New York City traffic ticket business – including moving violations and criminal matters – are down roughly 30 percent to 40 percent since the end of December. Traffic lawyers typically represent motorists who are pulled over by police for alleged offenses such as speeding, texting and reckless driving. They may also fight parking tickets.
This is a form of what Calvin Coolidge call a “strike against the public safety.” But it may cut both ways. If there is no increase in “serious” crimes as the result of the slowdown, then perhaps the people will decide they need a smaller police force to keep the peace and that they can find other sources of revenue.
