An NYPD officer based in Staten Island has come under intense scrutiny after records revealed his vehicle was captured by traffic cameras 547 times since 2022. The officer, James Giovansanti, who works out of the 120th Precinct on Richmond Terrace, is accused by local residents of failing to lead by example as a public servant.
A Record of Recidivism
According to reporting and data analysis, Giovansanti’s 4,800-pound RAM 1500 truck has been frequently clocked running red lights and speeding through school zones. In 2025 alone, the vehicle accumulated 187 camera-issued tickets.
Analysis of 2025 school-zone camera tickets by Transportation Alternatives ranked Giovansanti as the second-worst driver in the entire city based on 180 camera-issued speeding tickets. Records indicate he has paid a total of $36,650.02 in fines.
The “Stop Super Speeders” Proposal
The situation has highlighted a gap in current traffic laws, prompting support for the proposed Stop Super Speeders Act in the state legislature. This bill would allow the city to require repeat recidivist speeders to install a speed limiter device in their vehicles, similar to ignition interlock devices used for DWI sentences.
Had this legislation been in effect, Giovansanti would have been notified of the requirement to install such a device on Aug. 7, 2022, shortly after purchasing his truck. State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (D-North Shore) has signed onto the bill, describing reckless driving as a “serious public safety issue with often grave consequences.”
Official and Public Response
Mayor Mamdani labeled the officer’s behavior “unacceptable,” though he did not commit to specific disciplinary actions, stating instead that City Hall would “have a conversation internally.”
Former police officer and policing expert Michael Alcazar argued that Giovansanti should be subject to “serious discipline.” He noted that as a police officer, the individual is theoretically subject to NYPD discipline for dangerous conduct performed while out of uniform.
Staten Island residents have expressed growing frustration. One resident, Frank, suggested the officer’s license should be revoked and that he should be moved to a desk position to retain him away from patrol cars. Another resident, Allen, stated that police should be held to a higher standard, noting a historical lack of trust in the police.
Potential Next Steps
While the NYPD has not yet commented on the matter and Giovansanti has not responded to requests for comment, several outcomes could follow. The officer may face internal NYPD discipline for his conduct out of uniform, or the city could pursue further administrative actions if internal conversations lead to a decision.
the progression of the Stop Super Speeders Act could lead to a recent legal framework where drivers with similar records are mandated to leverage speed-limiting technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tickets has Officer James Giovansanti received?
His pickup truck has been caught on camera 547 times in Staten Island since 2022, which includes 187 tickets in 2025 alone.
What is the Stop Super Speeders Act?
It is a proposed state legislature bill that would allow the city to order repeat recidivist speeders to install a speed limiter device in their cars to prevent speeding.
Has the NYPD taken action against the officer?
The NYPD has not yet commented on the record, and Mayor Mamdani has not committed to specific discipline, stating only that City Hall would “have a conversation internally.”
Do you believe public servants should be held to a higher driving standard than the general public?
