Louisiana Police Department Responds to ‘Traffic Bingo’ Allegations

A Louisiana police department is under fire after rumors and photos of a bingo game created to encourage officers to meet their quota surfaced online.

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WAFB obtained photos of the alleged 'Traffic Bingo Cards' which looks like a typical bingo card expect each space has a different ticket written on it such as "Suspended Driver's License" "Parking in Handicap Zone" "Careless Operation" and so on.

The Zachary Police Department's Chief, Darryl Lawrence Sr., confirmed that the 'Traffic Bingo' cards were made by officers in their department as a competition but stated "the Zachary Police Department does NOT have a quota system and is NOT breaking any Louisiana Laws."

Chief Darryl Lawrence Sr. explains that this game was not approved by their department and the officers did not receive any incentives for completing their 'Traffic Bingo' card.

Once the police administration was made aware of the game all supervisors and officers were warned that it could threaten their relationship with the community according to WAFB.

Chief Darryl Lawrence's Response:

Over the past few months there have been numerous social media posts targeting my professionalism and character and the professionalism of the Zachary Police Department and our Officers. The information posted has been false and riddled with incorrect information.

Today, I would like to ensure the residents of Zachary and anyone who travels within the City limits of Zachary, that the Zachary Police Department does NOT have a quota system and is NOT breaking any Louisiana Laws. Two years ago, some officers created a Bingo game as a competition between shifts, it must be noted that the officers did not receive any incentives or awards for this game. This game was not created or approved by the Administration of The Zachary Police Department. Once I was made aware of this game, I immediately informed all Supervisors and officers that this kind of activity could threaten our relationship with Zachary Residents and the Public.

I want to reassure the residents of our City, and people that travel through The City of Zachary, that the officers of the Zachary Police Department work everyday within the boundaries of Louisiana Law and the Laws and Ordinances of the City of Zachary.

We are here to Protect and Serve this Community. I urge residents to always be cautious of information shared on social media from non-reputable sources.