Legislation to curb the proliferation of “sideshow” street takeovers—in which large groups of people and drifting automobiles occupy and block up entire intersections, bridges, and even freeways—was signed into law by both California Governor Gavin Newsom and San Francisco Mayor London Breed.
“Sideshows are reckless, criminal activities that endanger our communities. We have seen too many people killed or hurt at these events,” said Newsom in a statement. “We are sending a clear message to anyone considering participating in or attending a sideshow: stricter penalties are in place, including the potential loss of your vehicle.”
Two Republican and two Democratic bills in the state legislature would authorize the impoundment of automobiles used in sideshows or street racing, regardless of whether the events are hosted on public or private property.
In addition, the San Francisco package makes it a criminal to assist in the promotion of sideshows, to block off streets to make room for them, or to obstruct law officers from removing them. In cases where the District Attorney is bringing charges, and a conviction might result in the vehicle’s permanent seizure, the package also permits the city to hold sideshow vehicles for longer than 30 days.
“Sideshows are dangerous, disruptive, and illegal, and law enforcement agencies across the Bay Area need to work in close coordination to prevent and disrupt them,” said Mayor London Breed.
“In San Francisco, we are working to meet this challenge by adding new technology and expanding on our enforcement strategies; changing our laws will allow us to both hold those planning or participating in sideshows accountable and send a message that there will be consequences when they come to San Francisco,” she added.
Over 7,300 roadway takeovers were responded to by the California Highway Patrol in 2021. Despite a 50% drop in 2022, CHP informed NBC Bay Area that sideshows are occurring at a “alarming” rate, increasing in both magnitude and danger.