Oakland police say they will work with law enforcement partners to deploy additional resources on the streets to curb impaired driving and illegal sideshow activities this weekend.
The warning comes after multiple sideshows were reported early Sunday morning in different parts of the city.
At its height, there were more than 500 participants involved in the illegal activity and Oakland police issued 52 citations, towed 21 vehicles and made three arrests, officials said.
The sideshows took place at around 2 a.m. near Claremont and College avenues, Alcatraz and Telegraph avenues, the 1200 block of Derby Avenue and the 700 block of Mandela Parkway, according to an Oakland Police Department press statement. Another sideshow took place on High Street, according to KRON.
Some cars were reportedly set on fire.
“Gunshots were reported at many of the illegal sideshow locations,” the OPD said in a statement. “As additional officers arrived on the scene, vehicles and spectators dispersed the area.”
This news organization on Sunday asked OPD how many people were in the crowds, if anyone was injured, and if any arrests have been made. On Monday afternoon the department said officers made three arrests, issued 52 citations and towed 21 vehicles.
The Oakland City Council passed an ordinance last year making it illegal to “organize, facilitate or promote” sideshows.
Those found guilty of violating the ordinance could face misdemeanor charges and civil penalties including jailtime of six months or fines ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with increasing penalties for repeat offenders.
Those who participate in illegal sideshows could also have their vehicles towed and held for a 30-day period.
The OPD encourages those who find themselves in the middle of a sideshow look for a safe alternate route that would allow them to escape sideshow activities.
“If you are involved in a vehicle collision with a sideshow participant, do not confront the individual; instead call 911 to report the incident,” OPD said in a post on X Sunday afternoon.
OPD will collaborate with law enforcement partners to enforce impaired driving and illegal sideshow activities.
If you participate in illegal sideshows, your vehicle could be towed and seized with a 30-day hold.
Here are tips to help keep you safe if you encounter a sideshow. pic.twitter.com/mrmUy3vr1K
— Oakland Police Dept. (@oaklandpoliceca) April 14, 2024
Anyone with more information on the sideshows is asked to contact the OPD Traffic Section at 510-777-8570.
Check back for updates.
