Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Regional Operation Addresses Illegal Street Racing and Sideshows

On July 29^th, 2022 from about 8 P.M. until 3 A.M, the Reno Police Department, Sparks Police Department, Nevada State Police and the Washoe County Sheriff's Office conducted a joint operation to address illegal street racing and sideshows in the Truckee Meadows.  The operation involved 77 officers and other staff including traffic officers, patrol officers, motor officers, undercover officers, the Sheriff’s Office R.A.V.E.N. unit and City of Reno Dispatch. The operation was partially funded by the State of Nevada, Office Traffic Safety Joining Forces Program.

The objective of the operation was to identify citizens engaging in activities related to illegal street racing and aggressively enforce violations that were observed.  As a result of the collaborative effort by all agencies, the following enforcement actions were taken:

16 Arrests - 7 for DUI, 4 for Speed Contest, 1 for Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle, 1 for Felony Eluding, and 3 warrant arrests.

128 Cited Violations – Officers issued a number of citations (approximately 75) for various misdemeanor and traffic offenses.  Of note, 23 individuals were issued citations for Spectating a Speed Contest which occurred on Trademark Dr.  Other commonly cited offenses included reckless driving, speeding, registration and insurance violations, and equipment violations.

5 vehicles were towed.

The participating law enforcement agencies will continue to aggressively enforce offenses related to illegal street racing.  Those participating in and those spectating at these events are strongly advised to discontinue engaging in these activities.  Those who choose to continue to engage in these activities will be subject to future enforcement operations.

###

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

###