Sylmar/Sun Valley - On Saturday, January 13, 2001, between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., Foothill Area officers conducted an illegal street racing task force. The task force included the California Highway Patrol, Foothill Area Reserve Officers, and Task Force for Regional Auto Theft Prevention (TRAP). These officers worked in cooperation with the investigators from the State Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR).

The task force's objective was to stop the illegal street racing activity in Sylmar and Sun Valley. Officers accomplished this objective by arresting those drivers involved in a speed contest, aiding in a speeding contest, and the juveniles for curfew violations.

The expertise and knowledge of TRAP were used to seek out stolen vehicles and stolen vehicle components. Each vehicle was checked by TRAP and inspected by BAR.

Throughout the night, officers arrested one suspect for possession of a weapon, six suspects for illegal street racing, 25 juveniles for curfew violation, and issued 77 traffic citations. Officers also impounded 72 vehicles and issued nine parking citations.

In connection with the City Attorney, Department of Transportation and both City Councilman Wachs and Padilla's office, "No Stopping from 9:00 p.m., and 6:00 a.m. Tow Away Zone" signs have been erected along Glenoaks Boulevard between Sheldon Street and Peoria Street.

For further information, please contact Foothill Area Watch Commander Sergeant Bob Kirk or Senior Lead Officers Ron Walker and Michelle Rodriguez at 818-756-8861 or 8866.

This Press Release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.