maybe they don't like the plates and would rather get the fine, I live in NC (which doesn't have front plates) but I live right on the VA line (VA does require front plates) A lot of my friends live in VA and chose not to display the front plate as it takes away from the aesthetics and most police officers don't bother them (even if they did most just have to put the plate on or get a very minimal fine.) This is especially pertinent to the "boy racers" here so they dont have to drill holes in there front bumper/body kit.