By David Eck
Enquirer contributor

Springdale Police Officer Al Maupin gives a traffic citation to Darlene Emerson of Alexandria Tuesday on Northland Boulevard and explains the annual holiday Food-for-Fines program. (Glenn Hartong photo) | ZOOM |

SPRINGDALE - Darlene Emerson had never been stopped for speeding until Officer Al Maupin nabbed her on Northland Boulevard going at least 48 mph in a 35-mph zone.

She was surprised to learn that instead of a big fine before the holidays, she'd be required to donate canned goods to needy people.

"It kind of brings a good light to a bad situation," the 37-year-old Alexandria woman said Tuesday. "In the end, it kind of helps a good cause."

Springdale Police officers are taking the sting out of tickets - and sharing the spirit of the season - with their Food-for-Fines Program, now in its fifth year. Citations can be paid at police offices with 10 nonperishable canned goods.

The food is donated to churches, food pantries and needy area families.

The department waived about $10,000 in fines last year through Food-for-Fines. So far this year the department has waived about $5,000.

"It starts at Thanksgiving and runs through Christmas," said Officer Al Maupin, who came up with the idea and sold it to city officials.

The program helps take the emotional and financial drain out of tickets for officers who write them and the people who receive them, he said.

"The violators have other financial issues at Christmastime. I know if I had to come up with $75 (or whatever) all of sudden to pay a fine, it would dampen my week," said Springdale Police Chief Mike Laage. "It's a win-win situation for the department and the community."

Though canned goods pay the fine, the $20 state costs for moving violations cannot be waived, officials said, and points against a driver's license apply. Nonmoving violations don't incur the costs.

The program has drawn donations from people who don't have a ticket to pay.

"We've had people bring in a case of canned goods," Chief Laage said. "They just donate. I think it does show the type of community Springdale is, a very caring community."

Enquirer photographer Glenn Hartong contributed.