TAMPA, Florida — Tampa police officers and Hillsborough County deputies collaborated over the weekend to tackle street racing in the county, resulting in multiple traffic stops and arrests.
In an effort called “Operation Silent Knights,” authorities took proactive measures to halt illegal street racing, responding to an event that had gained traction on social media known as “The Tampa Bay Wet-N-Wild.”
According to a news release from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the event promoted street takeovers and reckless driving.
Information was circulated through social media platforms, encouraging drivers to gather at unlawfully closed intersections to race and perform vehicle stunts, including “donuts,” in front of onlookers.
During one arrest, deputies observed several vehicles, including a blue Ford Mustang, engaging in “donuts” and illegal drifting in broad daylight at the intersection of Madison Avenue and South 50th Street.
The driver of the Mustang attempted to evade deputies during a traffic stop but was eventually apprehended.
Street racers were arrested at various locations in Tampa and Hillsborough County.
Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized the disruptive impact of these street racers on traffic flow and the safety risks they pose to spectators, drivers, passengers, and law-abiding individuals in cars, on foot, or cycling in those areas.
As part of “Operation Silent Knights,” a total of 15 individuals were arrested, 23 citations were issued, and 8 cars were seized. Tampa police arrested three individuals and confiscated two cars.
The sheriff’s office outlined the charges faced by the offenders, which include unlawful racing as a spectator, unlawful racing as a driver/vehicle, unlawful racing on a highway, operating an unregistered vehicle, fleeing to elude, and several drug-related charges.
Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw condemned the careless and reckless driving that endangers the safety of others, stating that street takeovers anywhere in Tampa or Hillsborough County will not be tolerated. Those engaging in such activities will be apprehended, their vehicles impounded, and they will face legal consequences.
