Fresno police issued 145 citations for hands-free cell phone violations during a distracted driving enforcement operation on Saturday, the department said on Monday.

California has prohibited drivers from holding a phone or electronic device since 2008, banning talking, texting or using apps behind the wheel.

A handheld phone violation carries a fine, and a second offense within 36 months adds a point to a driver’s record, police said.

Police urged motorists to pull over to a safe location for important calls or navigation, and to silence or stow phones before driving.

The operation was funded by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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