(COLORADO SPRINGS) — Multiple law enforcement agencies coordinated in a street racing enforcement operation on Friday, June 6, that targeted dangerous and illegal driving behavior, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD).
CSPD reported that 54 officers, deputies, and troopers from CSPD, El Paso County Sheriff’s Office (EPSO), and the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) were involved, with patrol vehicles and motorcycles, as well as air support from CSP.
The operation targeted street racing, reckless driving, and trespassing in large, privately owned parking lots after hours, where planned car meets often lead to reckless driving and exhibitions such as doing donuts or street racing. CSPD stated that the dangerous and illegal driving behavior has increasingly threatened public safety in the community.
“Street racing and reckless driving continue to pose serious risks to our community,” said Adrian Vasquez, Chief of Police for CSPD. “Our department, in partnership with EPSO and CSP, remains committed to proactive enforcement efforts aimed at reducing these dangerous behaviors and keeping our roads safe for all.”
According to CSPD, during the operation, 138 people were dealt with, including issuing 22 warnings and 33 tickets for speeding, six of which were for speed contests and exhibitions. Nine people were arrested, with six being for DUI, two for outstanding warrants, and one for felony eluding after a person on a motorcycle refused to pull over and sped away from officers before being caught.
“Roads in El Paso County must be safe for everyone,” said El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal. “We remain firmly committed to our community, and coordinated operations like this one help hold accountable those who purposely engage in activities which are reckless and endanger others. I appreciate the strong partnerships with CSPD and CSP, and I commend my deputies who patrol in all conditions to ensure every driver, passenger, and pedestrian has the chance to return home safely to their loved ones.”
Law enforcement will be continuing efforts to address street racing in the region with additional upcoming enforcement actions.
“The Colorado State Patrol is proud to partner with EPSO and CSPD,” said Colonel Matthew C. Packard, Chief of CSP. “We all share the same goal: keeping Colorado’s roadways safe by taking a stand against dangerous driving behaviors associated with street racing. Together, we’re sending a clear message that this reckless activity has no place in our communities.”
CSPD encourages the public to choose safe driving habits that will not only keep them safe but also other members of the community.
