SCOTT, La. (KLFY) – ‘Road Closed’ barricades were at nearly every street corner during the recent flood and after years of motorists ignoring the signs Scott police are cracking down on violators.

Laws prohibiting drivers from passing when barricades are present have been in effect since the 70’s but violators have been an ongoing issue. “during flooding, with hurricanes, or just flooding issues like we had recently people just totally disregard the fact the roads are closed. it’s just an increasing disrespect for the people that live and have their businesses and homes in that flooded area.”

“During flooding, with hurricanes, or just flooding issues like we had recently people just totally disregard the fact the roads are closed. It’s just an increasing disrespect for the people that live and have their businesses and homes in that flooded area,” said Chief of police chad Leger.

Scott Chief of police Chad Leger said when motorists move or drive around barricades creates the potential for further damage.

“You know you’ll have these people with monster trucks and they’ll go around the barricades just because they can, or people come in a compact car who think they can make. they move the barricade and then get stuck. Now we have to send a fire truck or police car who was helping one person in need and go tend to this person in need.”

Local residents Dan Scanaars said he thinks increasing penalties will be beneficial.

“The homeowners, when they are in that kind of stress, they don’t need any extra stress. If increased penalties would reduce that stress then I think that would be a good thing.”

Leger said violators can expect to pay more than two hundred dollars in fines and make a mandatory appearance in court.

“All we are asking for is for people to respect the barricades, respect the people who live and work in these areas not to damage their property, and to protect their own lives,” said Leger.

Police will begin enforcing these penalties October 1st.