Spectators at illegal street takeovers can now face a misdemeanor or infraction, at the discretion of the City prosecutor, after the approval of an ordinance by the Long Beach City Council on Tuesday.
Councilmember Daryl Supernaw called the events “pervasive” and noted there have been 46 street takeovers (10 cars and spectators or more) in Long Beach in 2022 and 282 street takeovers in 2021.
Since the preliminary approval of the ordinance at last Tuesday’s council meeting, there was a street takeover in Belmont Shore, Councilmember Suzie Price said, which she called “scary.”
The ordinance targets spectators at street races, sideshows and reckless driving exhibitions and follows direction given by the council in July 2021.
The ordinance states a person would be considered “present” at a street race or “reckless driving exhibition” if they are within 200 feet of the location of the event or the site of preparations for either event.
A person’s previous participation or attendance at street takeover within three years can be used as evidence in court if they are found in violation of the ordinance.
Councilmember Daryl Supernaw, who requested the item in July 2021, noted that the ordinance is modeled after similar directives in Anaheim and San Jose.
Vice Mayor Rex Richardson and Councilmember Suely Saro raised concerns at a March 1 meeting about the negative impacts the ordinance could have on local youth.
“I don’t believe that attending the street takeover should leave a black mark that ultimately can keep [youth] from getting a job or connected to things that you’re supposed to be doing,” Richardson said, suggesting the usage of City programs such as Promising Adults, Tomorrow’s Hope (PATH).
PATH offers youth ages 16 to 24 the choice to complete occupational training or mentoring instead of criminal prosecution. City Prosecutor Doug Haubert noted PATH could be engaged as an option.
The ordinance will go into effect on April 8, 2022.
