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To the Editor: 

Thanks to Mayor Dean for bringing the issue of stereo assault vehicles to the public forum. However, there is no need for new laws. We have one already: “No driver of a vehicle shall operate, or permit the operation of, any sound amplification system which can be heard outside the vehicle from 50 or more feet when the vehicle is being operated upon a highway” (Calif. Vehicle Code 27007.) 

Patrolling officers may be reluctant to “bother” with writing noise citations. On the other hand, we all know the motorcycle officers in the traffic division who wait near stop signs and cite anyone who fails to make a complete stop. These same officers should be assigned to issue noise citations. After all, they will hear the offenders coming a block away. Let Berkeley be known as a city where you get cited when you disrespect people with your car stereo. 

Charles Pine 

Berkeley