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Michael Blackshire
Los Angeles,CA – November 15,2024 – Los Angeles County officials are intensifying their crackdown on illegal street takeovers following a surge in dangerous incidents linked to celebratory gatherings,moast recently after the dodgers’ World Series victory. District Attorney George Gascón and Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger announced a renewed push for stricter penalties targeting drivers, organizers, and spectators involved in these events.
The issue of street takeovers in Los Angeles County has been escalating for years,but gained significant attention following large-scale disruptions after the Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees in Game 5 of the World Series on October 30,2024. These events, often involving dozens of vehicles performing dangerous stunts and blocking intersections, have resulted in injuries to both participants and bystanders, as well as significant property damage. Areas particularly affected include Florence Avenue, Crenshaw Boulevard, and Harbor Freeway intersections.
Currently, California Vehicle Code Section 23109 makes it illegal to engage in reckless driving, exhibition of speed, or sideshows.In Los Angeles County, spectators face potential fines of $500 or up to 180 days in county jail, or the option to participate in a diversion program. Organizers and drivers face more substantial penalties, but officials argue these are insufficient to deter the behavior.
During a press conference held at the Hall of Justice in downtown Los Angeles, District Attorney Gascón’s office highlighted a recent case involving 28-year-old Marco Ramirez of Inglewood, who was charged with multiple misdemeanors related to organizing a street takeover on florence Avenue on November 3rd. Ramirez faces up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Supervisor barger, representing the Fifth Supervisorial District which has been heavily impacted by these events, is leading the effort to increase penalties for repeat offenders. She proposed amending county ordinances to impose significantly higher fines and potential jail time for individuals convicted of multiple violations.”We need to send a clear message that this behavior will not be tolerated,” Barger stated. “the current penalties are simply not a deterrent.”
Specifically, Barger is advocating for a tiered penalty system where a second conviction results in a $2,500 fine and a mandatory 30-day jail sentence, and a third conviction could lead to felony charges and potential vehicle forfeiture. The Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on the proposed ordinance changes during their December 3rd meeting.
Law enforcement officials, including Captain Sonia Rodriguez of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s department, have also emphasized the challenges of policing these events, citing the large crowds and the speed with which they disperse. The Sheriff’s Department has deployed specialized units, including the Major Crimes Bureau and the Traffic Enforcement Division, to address the issue, but officials acknowledge that a multi-faceted approach involving stricter laws, increased enforcement, and community outreach is necessary.
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has allocated $500,000 in emergency funding to support increased law enforcement efforts and the installation of surveillance cameras in known hotspots. The funding will also be used to develop public awareness campaigns aimed at educating residents about the dangers of street takeovers and encouraging them to report illegal activity.
