Police disguised as a bush surprise drivers and issue 74 fines

An officer from the Dunellen Police Department, in New Jersey, in the United States, adopted an unusual tactic to catch drivers distracted by their cell phones, resulting in 74 tickets in just six hours on August 3, 2026. The officer camouflaged himself in the bushes on a busy avenue to closely observe the offenders.

Unusual tactic to combat distracted driving

The Dunellen police department’s strategy involved an officer who dressed completely like a bush, leaving only his hands free to operate binoculars. This creative approach allowed the officer to blend into the urban environment on North Washington Avenue, a road known for its heavy traffic and pedestrian traffic, where distracted driving can have more serious consequences. The disguise specifically targeted drivers who look down at their devices, making them less likely to notice a traditional police presence.

Strict Penalties in New Jersey for Cell Phone Use

New Jersey state legislation, known as the Handheld Cell Phone Law, imposes severe penalties for anyone using a cell phone while driving. Fines vary depending on recidivism, serving as a strong disincentive for dangerous behavior.

Actions such as the one carried out by the Dunellen Police Department seek to reinforce the seriousness of the law and the importance of mindfulness in traffic.

High traffic and pedestrian safety motivate action on the avenue

The location chosen for the “bush” operation, at 100 North Washington Avenue, was not random. The area has an intense flow of traffic and a high concentration of pedestrians, increasing the risks associated with distracted driving. In a social media post, the Dunellen Police Department joked about the situation, but left a clear warning: “Our ‘bush’ has had a lot of work done. Let this serve as a reminder: that message or notification can wait. Keep your eyes on the road, not the screen!” The message emphasizes the priority of road safety over the use of electronic devices.

Public reaction after the special operation was announced

The disclosure of the unusual police tactic generated several reactions on social media, predominantly in good humor. Users commented on the creativity of the disguise, with some imagining the surprise of the fined drivers. Phrases like “If I had seen it, I would have called the police, saying there was a guy pretending to be a tree” and “I’m not saying I want to do that, but it would be hilarious if someone got trapped by a giant bush” illustrate the audience’s amused receptivity, which, however, also understood the seriousness of the message behind the joke.