ITHACA, N.Y. (WENY) -- Several police agencies in Tompkins County joined combined efforts to crack down on motorists using their cell phone while driving.

The Distracted Driver Enforcement Detail on August 29 focused on distracted drivers within the City of Ithaca. City of Ithaca Police, New York State Police, and the Tompkins County Sheriff's Department all participated.

Within the four-hour span of the enforcement, a total of 38 tickets were issued.

The Ithaca Police Department reminds motorists that operating a cell phone, even if it's on speaker, and texting and using an electronic device while driving is dangerous. If found guilty of doing so, a cell phone or electronic device ticket can carry a hefty fine, and will put five points on the driver's license.

Ithaca Police work with the Tompkins County District Attorney's office on an educational class to inform motorists of the danger of using a cell phone while driving. The class is offered every first Tuesday of the month at the Tompkins County Public Library. It is open to the public.