By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–Local authorities arrested 11 people and cited another 51 during sideshow takeover events last weekend in San Diego County.
On September 3, San Diego Police Department’s Traffic Division and California Highway Patrol were made aware of a planned sideshow takeover set to occur that evening. Sideshow takeover crews targeted intersections within the City of San Diego at Recho Road and Carroll Road, Juniper Park Lane and Sorrento Valley Boulevard, Flanders Court and Flanders Drive, Via Del Norte and La Jolla Boulevard, Kearny Villa Road and Topaz Way, Thorne Street and 43rd Street, and the intersection of Kenwood Drive and Bancroft Street in Spring Valley.
In a joint-agency effort, Officers from the San Diego Police Department, National City Police Department, and the California Highway Patrol assembled dozens of law enforcement officers to ensure public safety. The operation was intended to prevent, deter, and disrupt illegal activities associated with these events.
Officers pursued and deterred people participating, aiding, and spectating these events.
Participants in the events were arrested for crimes including felony reckless driving, DUI, an exhibition of speed, and spectating at an illegal event.
Officers cited seven drivers for reckless driving and/or exhibition of speed, and their vehicles were impounded for 30-days. They also cited seven individuals for aiding and abetting in a sideshow. Officers issued 37 hazardous and equipment citations and impounded 10 vehicles.
Four juveniles were present at these events after curfew. They were detained, cited, and released to their parents or guardians.
Sideshow takeover events are dangerous acts often resulting in injury, violence, and property damage. They also present serious dangers to the public, authorities stated in a news release.
Officers said fireworks are often used, elevating the likelihood of a fire during current weather conditions. Damages caused by vehicles involved in the activities often require repairs at each intersection, with an average cost of $2,500 to $18,000.
Authorities will continue to address these illegal and dangerous acts on public roadways. The activities have resulted in serious injury and loss of life.
If anyone has any information relating to these events, they are encouraged to contact San Diego Police Department, or visit Crime Stoppers at SD Crime Stoppers and remain anonymous.
