WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO) has once again clapped down on illegal street racing in a sting they call "Operation Hot Wheels." In a recent takedown, six individuals were arrested, and a slew of violations were handed out during a large car club event. According to WPTV, the event, Clean Cultures New Year Showcase at Cacti Park of the Palm Beaches, attracted over 4,000 attendees and was described as "proactive enforcement."

Officials made a total of 60 traffic stops, leading to 73 citations for offenses that included speeding and aggressive driving. In addition, 56 speeding and aggressive driving citations, eight criminal traffic citations were issued, and four vehicles were towed with a 30-day hold. The arrests ranged from racing a motor vehicle to possession of controlled substances and even firearm during a felony. WPTV reported that among those collared were David Joel Santiago, 27; Conner Arthur Moniger, 25; Charles Lawrence Baugh Jr., 21; Asia Bannister, 26; Shane Anthony Robinson, 26; and Tasha Petit-Louis, 27.

"Operation Hot Wheels" seems to be part of a sustained effort to reign in the daredevil antics of local car enthusiasts. This follows on from a February operation that also targeted illegal street races. According to CBS12, this latest crackdown was a pre-planned response to information about the car club event obtained by the sheriff's office.

Arrest details revealed by CBS12 provided a glimpse at the alleged infractions. For example, David Joel Santiago Rios, 27, faces charges of racing and felony criminal mischief, with his vehicle impounded for 30 days. Similarly, Conner Arthur Moniger, 25, was booked on counts of racing and criminal mischief of $1,000 or more, with his vehicle placed on a hold. Asia Bannister, 26, appropriated for possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, and displaying a firearm during a felony. Meanwhile, the details concerning Tasha Petit-Louis, age 27, were less forthcoming; Petit-Louis is charged with resisting arrest without violence, and possession of marijuana less than 20 grams.

The sheriff's office aims to dismantle the hazardous practices associated with illegal street racing and holds those flouting the law accountable. With operations like "Hot Wheels," PBSO has made clear its intent to keep the streets of Palm Beach County safe from the risks posed by high-speed racing and reckless driving.