Red-Light Runners Could Get Refund

City May Have To Reimburse Those Who Paid Tickets From Cameras

ORLANDO, Fla. -- A recent ruling that states Orlando's ordinance governing red light ticket cameras is pre-empted by state law may mean reimbursements for those who paid tickets.Nearly 50,000 people were issued red light tickets in Orlando in the past two years, and the city still has all of that revenue."The money collected has not been spent, but held in an account in case the city would be required to pay any damages," said a city spokeswoman.Tyler Shepard received a ticket in the mail for more than $100 after the city snapped a picture of him running the light at Conroy and Vineland roads."I was not very happy about it, because I don't have a lot of money. I'm in college, so it was a very hard ticket to pay," Shepard said.Now, a judge's Monday afternoon ruling may mean the city might have to return the money.The ruling came after a local man who was fined sued the city.The city said it is reviewing the possibility of an appeal, and issued the following statement:"Although we are disappointed in the ruling, the City's red light program's impact on safety in our community is undisputed. Accidents have been reduced by 33 percent at intersections where the red light cameras have been installed. The ordinance has been successful in protecting the lives and property of our citizens and visitors."In July, statewide red-light camera laws went into effect. The city said from now on, Orlando's ordinance will mimic the current state law.The city has collected $4 million since the cameras went in place.