Sheriff's Task Force Makes 22 Arrests At Street Takeover Events

LOS ANGELES, CA — An investigation was continuing Tuesday after Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies arrested 22 people over the weekend during operations targeting a series of planned street takeovers.

Members of the Sheriff's Department Street Takeover Task Force conducted operations in Carson, Compton, Lynwood, Commerce, Lakewood and several unincorporated areas of the county, authorities said.

A large group of people from Northern California traveled to Los Angeles County to take part in illegal events dubbed "Bay to LA," according to the Sheriff's Department.

The arrests involved alleged offenses including felony conspiracy to commit reckless driving, reckless driving, exhibition of speed, driving with a suspended license, felony evading a peace officer and felony possession of illegal firearms, authorities said.

The operations also resulted in seven vehicles being impounded for 30 days, 74 citations being issued and 22 vehicles being cited for violations requiring a state referee inspection.

"Our team is currently conducting follow-up investigations to hold those who participated in these illegal events accountable, and to combat illegal street racing and street takeovers within the county of Los Angeles," the Sheriff's Department said in a statement.

Sheriff's officials called street takeovers, sideshows and street racing dangerous events that put lives at risk.

Authorities warned that people who use their vehicles to block public streets while others take part in illegal speed exhibitions could be considered to be aiding and abetting. Violators face 30-day vehicle impoundments and possible criminal charges.

A conviction for reckless driving or exhibition of speed can result in a fine, community service and two points on a driver's Department of Motor Vehicles record, which could lead to higher insurance rates, authorities said.

Anyone with information about illegal street takeovers was urged to contact local law enforcement. Information about the state referee inspection process is available at asktheref.org. Anonymous tips can be made to Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or lacrimestoppers.org.

City News Service