Los Angeles authorities launch massive crackdown on illegal street takeover

Los Angeles authorities are warning that a massive crackdown on an illegal street takeover that resulted in 66 arrests and more than 200 vehicles being impounded is "only the beginning."

More than 150 Los Angeles Police Department officers, joined by Los Angeles County sheriff's deputies and California Highway Patrol personnel, descended on a gathering at South Figueroa Street and West Alondra Boulevard in Harbor Gateway around 3:20 a.m. Saturday.

Authorities said more than 700 people had gathered for the illegal event.

Police arrested 66 people, issued about 570 citations and impounded more than 200 vehicles. Seven firearms and an undisclosed amount of nitrous oxide were also seized.

"This is only the beginning," LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell said at a news conference at the intersection later Saturday.

Arrests included people suspected of assaulting a police officer, battery and obstructing or interfering with an arrest, McDonnell said.

Among those cited were 442 spectators at the illegal speed contest and 128 minors between the ages of 11 and 17 for alleged curfew violations.

McDonnell said some of the impounded vehicles had been stolen, rented or borrowed from parents who had no idea what their children were doing.

"Nobody's going to do that with their own vehicle," he said.

McDonnell also warned parents.

"Know where your kids are. One single reckless decision can ruin their life," he said. "This is not harmless fun. This is criminal behavior."

The chief said Saturday's operation was "not a one-off" and pledged similar enforcement at future street takeovers when staffing allows. He said authorities would continue making arrests and impounding vehicles, and advocated crushing vehicles involved in the events.

Mayor Karen Bass backed the crackdown, declaring "zero tolerance" for illegal street racing and takeovers.

"These are inherently dangerous and put the lives of drivers, spectators and innocent bystanders at risk," Bass said. "We will continue to prioritize prevention, deterrence and enforcement to protect Angelenos, businesses and neighborhoods and ensure those involved face consequences."

Media reports described chaotic scenes as police moved in early Saturday, with people climbing fences and fleeing through private yards while some vehicles reportedly collided as drivers attempted to escape the police perimeter.

City Councilman Tim McOsker said officers had been prepared for a takeover on the first night of Labor Day weekend and sealed off the intersection to prevent participants from escaping.

He said residents had endured repeated disruption from illegal racing at the intersection.

"We have good families and folks who are trying to live their lives," McOsker said. "Every single weekend this intersection was taken over by this illegal racing."

Street takeovers have plagued Los Angeles County for years but authorities say the problem has intensified in recent weeks. Several gatherings have also been linked to nearby retail burglaries.

Previous takeovers often ended with few or no arrests as crowds dispersed before officers could intervene.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department announced new measures last month aimed at identifying organizers and participants and pursuing arrests, vehicle impounds, citations and criminal prosecutions.