Maryland, Virginia drivers facing lawsuits for racking up hundreds of traffic violations

Drivers may want to think twice about speeding or running a red light after Attorney General Brian Schwalb announced five new lawsuits that hold drivers accountable for dangerous, illegal conduct on D.C. streets.

One of those lawsuits was filed against a Maryland driver, who racked up 300 speeding tickets in two years.

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Four more lawsuits are against Virginia drivers with more than 800 traffic violations in D.C. for speeding, running stop signs and red lights. These drivers owe the District $425,000 in unpaid fines and fees, according to the Attorney General.

Attorney General Schwalb filed these lawsuits under the STEER Act, which enables his office to hold drivers who don’t obey traffic laws accountable by imposing fines.

“Too many drivers think they can speed recklessly through the District, putting the safety of Washingtonians and visitors at risk, with no financial consequences for their lawlessness,” said Attorney General Schwalb.

Here’s a closer look at the lawsuits filed:

Charles V. Sanders Jr. from Maryland:

Owes $187,200
344 traffic infractions, including 316 citations for speeding.
61 of the speeding citations were for driving more than 30 miles per hour over the speed limit.
Ayanna Khalya Wilson from Virginia:

Owes $77,100
244 traffic infractions, including 202 citations for speeding
Omar Rahmouni El Idrissi from Virginia

Owes $69,456
263 traffic infractions, including 246 citations for speeding
Dejene A. Abebe from Virginia:

Owes $58,608
197 traffic infractions, including 163 citations for speeding
Pedro James Baker from Virginia:

Owes $31,316
159 traffic infractions, including 30 citations for speeding
20 citations for running red lights
15 citations for running stop signs
“These suits reflect our continuing commitment: if your actions behind the wheel put people’s lives at risk, we will hold you accountable, no matter where you live,” said the Attorney General.