KEY LARGO, FL — In a novel approach to traffic enforcement during the holiday season, Colonel Lou Caputo of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, dressed as the Grinch, gave speeding drivers a unique choice: a citation or an onion.
This unusual initiative took place on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway at Key Largo, where Caputo, alongside other deputies, pulled over drivers slightly exceeding the speed limit. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Seuss’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” Caputo offered a humorous yet educational alternative to the standard traffic ticket.
Drivers who were caught speeding were presented with an onion and a lesson on the importance of driving safely, especially during the busy holiday season. The goal was to encourage drivers to slow down and prioritize the safety of children and other community members.
Caputo’s approach surprised many drivers, with most opting for the onion over a citation. The officer humorously suggested that choosing the citation might warrant a sobriety test. This initiative reflects a creative and light-hearted method to reinforce traffic safety during a time of year known for its hectic pace.