Massive Street Takeover Leads to Hundreds Cited, Dozens Arrested

Los Angeles police covertly moved in at the scene of what became a massive street takeover in the predawn hours Saturday and made dozens of arrests, issued hundreds of citations, and seized 200 vehicles after officers surrounded more than 700 people in Harbor Gateway. The effort culminated at the intersection of South Figueroa Street and West Alondra Boulevard, where more than 150 officers enforced 'Operation Street Sweeper,' Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell said at a news conference Saturday afternoon. At one point, part of the scene erupted into a 'demolition derby,' as drivers tried to evade arrest and banged into other cars, said Los Angeles City Councilman Tim McOsker, who represents the 15th District. Police arrested 66 people on suspicion of participating in or aiding a street race or takeover, McDonnell said. Three others were arrested on additional grounds — one on suspicion of assaulting a police officer, another on suspicion of battery and a third on suspicion of obstructing or interfering with officers. Officers also issued 570 citations, including 442 to people accused of being spectators at a speed contest or exhibition of speed, according to McDonnell, and 128 citations issued to juveniles for curfew violations. Some 200 vehicles were impounded and seven firearms were seized.