Police and elected officials in Orange County are actively addressing the issue of street takeovers, also known as sideshows, which involve illegal driving exhibitions. These events attract large crowds to watch drivers perform stunts like burnouts, drifting, and racing in public areas. Although there has been a recent decline in such activities in cities like Anaheim and Irvine, authorities continue to crack down on them using various strategies.
In Irvine, police are focusing on targeting illegally modified cars, using air surveillance, and monitoring social media to prevent these dangerous events. Irvine Police Department spokesman Kyle Oldoerp emphasized the city’s zero-tolerance approach, stating, “If you come to Irvine and you street race or you drive dangerously, you can expect to have your car impounded.” The department is also testing a sound detection system called Raven to identify noises from revving engines and screeching tires, as well as employing drones for enforcement.
According to Voice of OC, since 2022, the Orange County District Attorney’s office has filed nearly 2,000 cases related to reckless driving, street racing, and street takeovers. In 2025 alone, 10 street takeover cases have been filed. This follows the formation of a countywide task force in 2020 to address illegal street racing and reckless driving, supported by new local and state laws.
In September, Governor Gavin Newsom signed four bills aimed at curbing street takeovers. These laws allow judges to suspend offenders’ driver licenses for three to six months and impose employment-related driving restrictions. They also enable police to impound cars involved in illegal street races and takeovers.
Anaheim Police Chief Rick Armendariz acknowledged that recent street takeovers have led to injuries, prompting the city to take action. Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken noted that the city’s large thoroughfares and intersections make it a prime location for such events, but efforts are underway to curb the problem.
Recent Comments