Nearly 70 arrested and more than 500 cited in massive Los Angles street takeover event
Nearly 70 people were arrested, and more than 500 citations were issued as a result of a massive illegal street takeover in Los Angeles over the weekend.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell said authorities planned “Operation Street Sweeper” after using intelligence gathering and drones to map out the locations of four separate street takeovers in the Harbor Gateway neighborhood Saturday night, KABC reported.
Street takeovers occur when people illegally use their vehicles to block off roads so that drivers can perform dangerous stunts or race.
The operation culminated at the intersection of South Figueroa Street and West Alondra Boulevard, where over 700 people were gathered around 2 a.m., authorities said.
More than 150 LAPD officers surrounded the massive group, eventually citing hundreds of people and taking dozens more into custody.
Sixty-six people were arrested for participating in or aiding in a street race or takeover. One person was arrested for assaulting an officer, one for battery and another for obstructing or interfering with officers.
In addition to the arrests, there were 570 citations issued — 442 for being a spectator at a speed contest or exhibition of speed, and 128 were issued to juveniles who were out past the city’s 10 p.m. curfew for minors.
The youngest person attending the illegal gathering was just 11 years old, McDonnell said.
Authorities said they towed about 200 vehicles from the scene and recovered at least seven firearms and canisters of nitrous oxide.
“This is not harmless fun. This is criminal behavior. Your children are participating in an active crime scene where they are lawfully subject to immediate arrest and exposed to harm,” McDonnell said about the arrests. “Parents — know where your kids are. Watch out for them and have serious talks with them about what they are dealing with here…one single reckless decision can ruin or take their life.”
Authorities said they would continue to bust illegal street takeovers.
“We will continue to prioritize prevention, deterrence, and enforcement to protect Angelenos, businesses, and neighborhoods and ensure those involved face consequences,” Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said in a statement.
