Feds warn state about improper handling of trucker tickets

Federal transportation officials have warned the state that judges should not let truckers pay fines and then keep traffic citations off their records.

The U.S. Department of Transportation said Davidson County judges are involved in "masking or diversion programs."

"We received documentation that indicates that county judges are collecting fines and court costs from offenders, but recording a dismissal of the citation," federal officials said in a letter to state Safety Commissioner Dave Mitchell.

Davidson County judges have pledged to discontinue the practice.

The letter was prompted by news reports by WTVF-TV of Nashville.