PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland police disrupted a planned illegal street racing event over Easter weekend, resulting in multiple arrests, vehicle seizures and weapons confiscations, KGW8 reported.
The operation targeted an event promoted under names like “Swing into Easter” and “PDX is Everyone,” which was expected to attract large crowds. Officers launched a special enforcement mission on April 19 to locate gathering spots and intercept participants before any large-scale takeovers could occur.
“Street racing and street takeovers are dangerous and pose a safety risk to our community,” said Chief Bob Day. “This reckless behavior endangers not only participants but also innocent drivers who share the road.”
Throughout the night, officers conducted 37 traffic stops. Six drivers attempted to flee, leading to one pursuit. Most were eventually apprehended, arrested and had their vehicles towed.
The operation resulted in:
- Seven arrests
- 32 traffic citations
- Nine vehicles towed
- Four firearms seized
Charges for the suspects include reckless driving, attempting to elude police, unlawfully possessing firearms and driving while suspended, according to the report. One individual was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.
PPB credited the success of the mission to support from several partner agencies, including the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, Vancouver Police Department and Gresham Police Department.
Under Oregon law, vehicles involved in illegal street racing can be subject to criminal forfeiture, according to the report. Since implementation of the law, four cars have been permanently forfeited, three returned to lien holders and five remain in forfeiture proceedings.
Portland city code defines unlawful street takeovers as coordinated, unpermitted displays of vehicle maneuverability, such as drifting or spinning in circular patterns. PPB recently updated its towing policy to allow immediate towing for violations related to unlicensed or uninsured driving and street takeovers, according to the report.
