AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) said it is continuing to address illegal activity surrounding fraudulent vehicle emissions inspections known as “clean scanning,” allowing cars on the roads that are polluting the air and can harm your health.
Clean scanning relates to a fraudulent “pass” for a vehicle’s emissions test that, in many cases, happens when a state inspector takes a bribe. It’s a problem KXAN has investigated for more than a year and one that, law enforcement recently testified, isn’t slowing down.
From Feb. 13, 2023, through Thursday, DPS secured or served 88 arrest warrants related to clean scanning in the state, according to newly released figures.
“Clean scanning is a serious crime and one that the Texas Department of Public Safety is working very hard to combat,” DPS press secretary Sheridan Nolen said. “The arrests made during this latest operation are a result of a tremendous amount of investigative work and collaboration with local, state and federal partners who are committed to detecting, disrupting and arresting individuals who are in engaged in this type of criminal activity which can put the lives of Texans at risk.”
During its most recent operation in Houston this month, DPS said it secured 19 arrest warrants for criminal activity related to clean scanning. As part of that, on Thursday, DPS arrested five people and secured arrest warrants for 14 others all accused of “organized criminal activity.”
Over the past several months, the department said it conducted surveillance at vehicle inspection stations throughout the state where illegal activity was believed to be taking place.
While vehicle safety inspections will go away next year, emissions tests will still be required in 17 Texas counties to comply with federal clean air standards.
Anyone who suspects clean scanning is urged to report it to DPS at (512) 424-0290.