Driver Jason R Humphreys caught using phone jamming device

A FLORIDA man is facing a US$48,000 fine for using a phone signal ‘jammer’ in his car, to prevent drivers around him from making calls.

Jason R Humprheys is accused by the Federal Communications Commission of using a phone jammer in his vehicle during his daily commute on the Interstate 4 for about two years before he was caught, My Fox NY reports.

Telecommunications provider Metro PCS noticed its mobile phone tower sites experiencing interference during moing and evening rush hours and alerted authorities in April 2013.

Talking on a mobile phone while driving is legal in Florida, though texting is banned.

Agents from the Federal Communications Commission discovered strong wideband emissions issuing from Mr Humphreys’ Toyota Highlander SUV. Jammers such as the one discovered in the car are prohibited for use in the United States under federal law, because they threaten the communications infrastructure, including emergency calls.

Mr Humphreys said he used the jammer to keep people from talking on their phones while driving.