GASTONIA, N.C. — Gastonia Police are increasing enforcement efforts to stop drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses after officers witnessed multiple violations in just the first two days of the new school year.

Sgt. Daniel Lane said bus drivers first alerted police to the problem, reporting that people were passing their buses with extended stop arms and flashing red lights five to 10 times per week.

"At first I didn't think it was as prevalent as it is, but when they started telling me five or 10 times a week that's happening, and then I started to follow them just in two days, I witnessed so many people do it," Lane said.

The violations put children at serious risk, Lane said, because students crossing the street aren't looking out for passing vehicles.

"They're usually chil

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