DOUGLAS COUNTY, Neb. —

Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson announced a "zero tolerance" approach to freeway and freeway ramp safety on Monday.

The crackdown means panhandlers and others will be ticketed if they are "standing, sitting, walking and soliciting" near highways that require a ramp to enter, Hanson said. Examples in the Omaha area include Interstates 80, 480, 680, and the West Dodge Expressway.

Hanson said deputies will not issue warnings before issuing a $25 ticket.

"The warnings have all been given," he said. "Douglas County Sheriff's deputies have been given warnings for some time to folks to please follow the law. And it is obvious that that goodwill gesture is not sinking in. So now it's time to enforce the law."

Hanson said it's about safety. He said there's been an in

See Full Page