The San José Police Department has made an arrest related to the organization and promotion of multiple illegal sideshows in the city, disrupting daily life and special events across the communities. After several months of investigation in January 2025, patrol officers pinpointed a suspect allegedly responsible for around thirteen incidents from March to December 2024, notably during important cultural celebrations such as Cinco de Mayo weekend, when nine separate illegal events were promoted.
Louie Ristow, the suspect and an individual already on active probation, was identified as the main promoter behind the illegal sideshows, according to the San José Police Department's announcement. The chaotic spectacles he is accused of arranging often occurred simultaneously in multiple city areas, thwarting family-friendly events to celebrate cultural diversity. Ristow's arrest warrant was swiftly followed by his apprehension last Tuesday, whereupon he was booked at the Santa Clara County Main Jail on charges of promoting illegal sideshows and violating his probation.
Commending the persistent effort of the police force, Chief Paul Joseph remarked, as per the San José Police Department, “Our officers remain committed to protecting San José and holding those accountable who threaten the safety of our neighborhoods." He asserted that the department's dedication to justice ensures that even those who evade initial capture would ultimately face consequences: “Even if someone slips away today, that doesn’t mean they’re gone—we follow through, we investigate, and we deliver results. The community can count on us to stay the course.”
