Early morning disturbances rattled Vallejo last Saturday when a sideshow involving roughly 200 vehicles unfolded at the intersection of Sonoma Blvd. and Lemon St. According to the Vallejo Police Department, calls poured in around 4:38 a.m., notifying authorities of the event that resulted in blocked traffic and general chaos. Vallejo Police, with backing from the Solano County Sheriff's Office and the American Canyon Police Department, intervened to disperse participants and onlookers.

The gathering quickly took a turn for the worse when officers, while clearing the area, noted a vehicle ablaze and two abandoned stolen Chevrolet Camaros with engines running in the thoroughfare. In response to the illegal gathering, two individuals were cited for spectating, and their vehicles were impounded. Yet another spectator faced the loss of their truck and the vehicle it was towing, highlighting the financial and legal repercussions of engaging in or just watching such unlawful exhibits.

The Vallejo Police Department took the opportunity to remind residents and visitors alike of the heavy toll associated with sideshows. If caught, you're staring down at least a 30-day impound of your vehicle, adding up to a steep $2,589 in various fees. The cost breakdown is as follows: a $339 tow release fee from the Vallejo Police Department, a $300 initial tow from the scene, daily storage fees of $60, plus an additional $150 for after-hour towing services.

Moreover, Vallejo's law enforcement underscored the legal implications, citing ordinance 8.74.040, which explicitly prohibits the act of spectating at street races and reckless driving exhibitions. The ordinance states, "It is unlawful for any person to: knowingly be present as a spectator at a street race conducted on a public street or highway", and "Knowingly be present as a spectator at a reckless driving exhibition conducted on a public street or highway or in an off-street parking facility." Such activities don't just lead to impounds and fines, but can also result in an arrest, as per the Vallejo Police Department.

This crackdown and public warning signal Vallejo's commitment to road safety and zero tolerance for reckless driving stunts that pose a threat to the community. Spectators and would-be participants should heed these regulations to avoid hefty fines and legal troubles.