The Street Racing Task Force has answered 8,300 calls, issued more than 7,000 citations and made more than 1,000 misdemeanor and 200 felony arrests. 1,000+ vehicles have been towed.
San Jose police confirm they got the calls reporting the side show but say they were so tapped responding to other crimes they didn't have enough officers to respond safely.
Violators could be charged with a misdemeanor and face fines of up to $1,000, six months in jail or some combination of both if they promote, instigate or encourage any such events online in the wake of a new ordinance passed by San Jose City Council this week.
Law enforcement agencies nationwide are developing new strategies and tactics to shut down and prevent organized reckless driving and racing.
Interim Chief James White said he will deploy extra officers on overtime to carry out the plan's five components: Increasing police presence; strict enforcement of noise code violations; cracking down on parking lot owners who allow tailgating parties; curbing drag racing and drifting; and community engagement.
Acting police chief Robert J. Contee III, speaking at a news conference, called the incident “embarrassing,” adding, “It’s certainly something that I do not tolerate.”
The four officers — two in each vehicle — were treated for injuries at hospitals. Police said the vehicles were totaled.
Authorities said deputies and officers went from car to car and arrested all 88 suspects in the street racing crew.
The Aurora Police Department tweet, which went out about 12:08 AM, reads: "There are reportedly 600 vehicles involved intentionally blocking the shoulders preventing police from accessing the area. There are reports of fireworks and smoke and weapons being waved. Stay out of area while officers try to address the situation."
Capt. David Jackson said police received several reports Tuesday night of sideshow activity across the city. Jackson said callers reported “street racers, dangerous driving and shots fired.”
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