Florida Woman Cited for Phone Use Says She Lacks Right Hand
Kathleen Thomas received a citation in February after a Palm Beach County Sheriff's deputy stopped her for holding a phone. She told CBS News she does not believe the officer intended harm but hopes the incident prompts discussion about interactions with people who have limb differences.
foxnews.comKathleen Thomas was stopped by a Palm Beach County Sheriff's deputy in February and received a citation for allegedly using a phone with a right hand she does not have. Thomas spoke with CBS News' Cristian Benavides after video of the stop circulated online. She said she does not think the officer meant to be "mean" but wants the encounter to lead to wider discussion about limb difference.
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"For every one of me there's several others that that could destroy their entire day," Thomas stated. The deputy issued the citation during the traffic stop. Thomas described the interaction as one that could affect others who have visible physical differences.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
2 events- February 2026
Palm Beach County deputy stopped Kathleen Thomas and issued a citation for phone use.
1 source@CBSNews - May 2026
Thomas told CBS News she does not believe the officer intended to be mean.
1 source@CBSNews
Potential Impact
- 01
Video of the stop may increase public attention to traffic stops involving visible disabilities.
Transparency Panel
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