The Adams County Sheriff’s Office announced on May 14 that it conducted a joint traffic enforcement operation with regional law enforcement partners to target expired vehicle registrations across Adams County. The operation took place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and included participation from the Brighton Police Department, Commerce City Police Department, and Thornton Police Department.
According to the sheriff’s office, officers in unincorporated Adams County made 110 traffic stops during the effort, which resulted in 71 citations issued, three vehicles impounded, and three arrests for warrants and drug possession.
“Expired plates and registrations are often raised as concerns within the community,” said Adams County Sheriff Gene Claps. “Operations like this reinforce our commitment to listening to our residents and addressing the issues that matter most to them.”
In addition to addressing expired registrations, deputies reported that two commercial motor vehicles were taken out of service due to multiple violations including expired registration. “This operation isn’t just about expired plates and registrations,” Claps said. “It’s also about addressing unsafe driving behaviors and other traffic-related issues throughout the county. Conducting these targeted traffic operations promotes accountability and helps keep our roadways safer for all Adams County residents.”
This marks the second such enforcement initiative in recent months; a similar operation held in August 2025 resulted in nearly 400 stops, with participating agencies issuing 295 citations, towing 16 vehicles, and making 13 arrests over a twelve-hour period.
The sheriff’s office encourages residents with expired plates to contact the Adams County Motor Vehicle Office or visit its website for information on renewing their registration online.
