De Luz Sideshow, Car Racing Halted After CHP Multi-Agency Surveillance Operation, Impounds

DE LUZ, CA — California Highway Patrol shut down an illegal street racing and sideshow incident Friday in the De Luz area west of Temecula, according to Officer Mike Lassig.

At 11:15 p.m., a task force of CHP and Riverside County Sheriff's Department officers surveilled a large group of motorists and passengers who "began engaging in sideshow activities," Lassig said. Seven vehicles were involved, four were impounded, and numerous citations were handed out during the incident. No arrests were made.

"Over recent weeks, several De Luz residents have complained to the CHP and Riverside County Sheriff’s Department about near-weekly sideshows occurring primarily on weekend evenings. In response to these complaints, the CHP and RSO coordinated and planned enforcement operations for Friday night."

The task force was ready when a large group of motorists arrived, most with passengers (including an infant), and they began engaging in sideshow activities, according to Lassig. The task force contacted and detained all involved parties on the scene.

"In all, seven vehicles were involved in the sideshow incident, along with 12 participants and spectators aged 17 to 24. "An infant was also present," Lassig said.

Four vehicles were impounded, and officers issued 11 misdemeanor citations.

Charges included:

Exhibition of speed, reckless driving, driving unlicensed, child endangerment, minor in possession of alcohol, and a misdemeanor warrant.

"Numerous mechanical violations were cited, including modified emissions systems, excessive exhaust noise, and expired vehicle registration," he said.

The surveillance group included CHP personnel, one CHP sergeant, and two CHP Temecula Area Special Investigations Unit (SIU) officers. Riverside County Sheriff's Department personnel included two Southwest Sheriff’s Station deputies and four deputies from RSO’s Takeover Racing EnforcEment Team (STREET).

"The CHP would like to remind the motoring public that Sideshows—often involving street racing, car stunts, and large crowds—may seem exciting, but they pose serious risks to participants, bystanders, and communities," he said. "These events typically lack the safety precautions of regulated environments, leading to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities."

Remember:

• Stay Clear: Avoid attending or getting close to sideshows. Vehicles can easily lose control, putting everyone nearby in harm’s way.
• Know the Law: Sideshows are illegal in many areas, and being involved can lead to serious consequences, including fines, vehicle impoundment, and criminal charges.
• Be a Safe Driver: The skills displayed in sideshows are not meant for public roads. Reckless driving endangers everyone, from pedestrians to other drivers. Respect traffic laws and encourage others to do the same.

"Let’s keep our streets safe," Lassig said. "Choose to enjoy driving responsibly and in controlled environments and help spread awareness about the dangers of illegal sideshows. CHP, RSO, and allied law enforcement agencies have a zero-tolerance policy on illegal street racing and sideshows."