Last week Vallejo streets became the stage for a large-scale sideshow, a ballet of rubber and concrete performed by approximately one hundred vehicles at the intersection of Georgia Street and Columbus Parkway. According to the Vallejo Police Department's Facebook page, the department was alerted to this unsanctioned event at around 11:40 P.M. on August 3, and it took a collaborative effort from multiple law enforcement agencies to disband the participants.
The operation involved Vallejo Police Department, the Solano County Sheriff's Office, American Canyon Police Department, Napa County Sheriff's Office, Benicia Police Department, and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) — even employing air support from the California Highway Patrol's Air Operations Unit. Despite the best efforts of the police, the festivities continued until the early hours of 2:05 A.M., with the crowds simply relocating to different intersections throughout the city.
Thanks to the vigilance of the authorities, the evening concluded with 14 people arrested for various misdemeanors, and four vehicles towed — each with a 30-day hold placed on them. "Thankfully, CHP's Air Operations Unit tracked the sideshow participants who thought it was a great idea to drive recklessly in our city, along with their spectating cheerleaders," the Vallejo Police Department's expressed on their Facebook page.
Besides the potential safety risks involved, taking part in such events comes with a hefty price. For those considering partaking in future sideshows, Vallejo Police Department reminds you that your ride might end up in the impound lot with fees totaling around $2,589. Breakdown of costs includes a $339 tow release fee from the Vallejo Police Department, a $300 fee for tow from the scene, $60 per day for storage, and, if you are unlucky enough to require an after-hour tow, that's an extra $150.
More than just a tow and a fine, participation in these sideshows can lead to arrest under the local ordinance 8.74.040, which prohibits spectators at street races and reckless driving exhibitions. With this latest disruption to the Vallejo community, it's a stark reminder that the authorities are watching and willing to reinforce the consequences of such actions.
