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Vallejo, CA —The Vallejo Police Department (VPD) is proud to announce a collaboration with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to address the ongoing challenges of sideshows and reckless driving within the City of Vallejo. This surge, initiated under the authorization of Governor Gavin Newsom, aligns with recently enacted legislation designed to strengthen enforcement and increase penalties for these dangerous activities.
Governor Newsom recently signed four key assembly bills (AB) into law, empowering law enforcement to take stronger action against illegal sideshows and street takeovers:
AB 1978: Grants law enforcement greater authority to impound vehicles involved in speed contests or exhibitions, regardless of whether the driver is arrested.
AB 2186: Closes existing loopholes by allowing the impoundment of vehicles used in speed exhibitions within off-street parking facilities.
AB 2807: Establishes standardized terminology for "sideshows" and "street takeovers" across California to streamline enforcement and prosecution efforts.
AB 3085: Authorizes law enforcement to obtain warrants for the seizure and impoundment of vehicles associated with sideshows, including those used to support or facilitate these events.
Beginning in the coming weeks, CHP will support VPD by conducting multiple operations per month during evening weekend hours. These operations will involve additional CHP officers supplementing VPD resources to enhance our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to sideshow activity. Together, the two agencies will enforce all California Vehicle Code (CVC) laws, aiming to deter and disrupt reckless driving while holding offenders accountable for jeopardizing public safety.
"These additional resources will allow us to expand our efforts using both traditional and non-traditional enforcement strategies," said Chief Ta. "We are also developing follow-up investigation techniques to address these incidents effectively and deter future occurrences."
The new legislation provides law enforcement agencies with essential tools to combat the growing threat of illegal street activities that endanger drivers, pedestrians, and neighborhoods.
The partnership between CHP and VPD underscores our shared commitment to public safety and our determination to combat reckless driving and sideshows. This increased collaboration will create a safer environment for Vallejo's residents, businesses, and stakeholders.
The Vallejo Police Department will continue to share updates on these operations and their positive impact on community safety.
For media inquiries, please contact Public Information Officer Sgt. Rashad Hollis by email at VallejoPolicePIO@cityofvallejo.net or by phone at (707) 567-4233.
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