LA County Law Enforcement: 22 Arrests in 'Bay to LA' Crackdown
Deputies targeted illegal street events across six cities and unincorporated areas over the weekend, impounding seven vehicles.
By Julian Kobayashi ·
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 22 people during weekend operations targeting a series of illegal street takeovers. The crackdown focused on events branded as “Bay to LA,” which drew a large group of participants from Northern California to the region.
The Sheriff’s Department Street Takeover Task Force executed these arrests in Carson, Compton, Lynwood, Commerce, and Lakewood, as well as in several unincorporated areas of the county. Authorities stated that the suspects faced charges for felony conspiracy to commit reckless driving, exhibition of speed, and driving with a suspended license. Other cited offenses included felony evading a peace officer and felony possession of illegal firearms.
The operations extended beyond arrests, resulting in the issuance of 74 citations. Officers also impounded seven vehicles for 30 days and cited 22 additional vehicles for violations requiring a state referee inspection. These inspections are mandatory for specific driving offenses to verify vehicle safety and emissions standards.
Sheriff’s officials described street takeovers, sideshows, and street racing as dangerous activities that put lives at risk. They warned that individuals who block public streets to facilitate these illegal speed exhibitions could be charged with aiding and abetting. Violators face potential criminal charges and mandatory vehicle impoundments.
A conviction for reckless driving or exhibition of speed carries penalties including fines, community service, and two points on a driver’s Department of Motor Vehicles record. Authorities noted that these points can lead to higher insurance rates for affected drivers. The department is currently conducting follow-up investigations to hold all participants accountable for their actions during these events.
The Sheriff’s Department urged residents with information about illegal street takeovers to contact local law enforcement. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-8477 or visiting lacrimestoppers.org. Information regarding the state referee inspection process is available online at asktheref.org.
Source: MyNewsLA (City News Service)
