The Los Angeles Police Department says it arrested 69 people and issued 570 citations during a sweeping crackdown Saturday morning on an illegal street takeover in Harbor Gateway. The operation, called “Street Sweeper,” targeted a crowd of more than 700 people gathered near the intersection of Figueroa Street and Alondra Boulevard.
Police said the Street Racing Task Force used advance intelligence and drone technology to surround the scene. About 150 officers from the LAPD, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the California Highway Patrol took part, along with buses and dozens of tow trucks.
Officials said 66 people were arrested on suspicion of participating in or assisting illegal racing and street takeovers, and three more were arrested on charges including battery on an officer and resisting or obstructing police. Police also issued 442 citations for watching illegal speed contests and 128 citations to minors for violating the 10 p.m. curfew.
Authorities said they impounded 200 vehicles at the scene and recovered seven guns and nitrous oxide canisters. LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell called street takeovers criminal activity, not entertainment, and urged parents to keep their children away from dangerous scenes like this. The department said it plans to continue aggressive enforcement against illegal street takeovers.
