32 Arrested In Street Racing Operation On Tampa Bay-Area Bridges: FHP

TAMPA BAY, FL — Thirty-two people were arrested in a multi-agency street racing operation targeting Tampa Bay-area bridges, according to a Florida Highway Patrol news release.

The Tampa Police Department, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Clearwater Police Department, Pinellas Park Police Department, St. Petersburg Police Department and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office collaborated Monday for Operation Keep Our Streets.

The operation coincides with the kickoff of Senate Bill 1764, which increases the maximum fine for those participating in street racing or roadway takeovers, FHP said. The bill also increases penalties for second-time offenders and anyone who knowingly interferes with emergency vehicles responding to calls for service due to street racing or street takeover activities.

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The primary focus of this recent operation was the Gandy Bridge and Courtney Campbell Causeway, two areas that have seen street racing incidents and arrests in recent years, FHP said. Some suspects have been arrested for street racing at speeds well over 100 miles per hour.

Due to construction, the Howard Frankland Bridge, another area known for street racing, was not included in Monday’s operation.

During the operation, 457 traffic stops were made to address unsafe driving behaviors, including speeding, violation of a traffic control device, driving under the influence, driving while license suspended, violation of the move-over law, fleeing to elude, possession of narcotics, and street racing.

The operation yielded 162 traffic citations, 295 traffic warnings, five DUI arrests, 18 criminal citations, and two arrests for street racing.

“FHP is committed to ensuring Florida roadways are safe for everyone to travel,” Dave Kerner, Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles executive director, said. “This operation and its success reflect our commitment and provide ample warning to those who jeopardize public safety; FHP aggressively enforces traffic and criminal laws to protect our citizens and visitors.