Atlanta Officials Bust Illegal Street Racing Operation

Atlanta police are trying to crack down on an illegal street racing ring.

According to WSB-TV, the city’s police department has arrested dozens of people and issued over 100 citations in the past week with a mission to end an illegal street racing operation. Authorities reportedly had to use a unique strategy to locate reckless drivers and street racers who have been coming together in several areas in Atlanta. Police say most of the arrests and citations were issued at well-know havens for illegal racing, one of the areas being Spring Street in Midtown.

Forty-four people were arrested, and 29 vehicles have been impounded. Authorities found four firearms, including a semi-automatic rifle. During those arrests, police also found one convicted felon in possession of a firearm. According to the outlet, police issued 114 citations that ranged from speeding, reckless driving and driving under the influence.

“We pledged to deal with these speeders and reckless drivers who have shown a complete disregard for the safety of others with these dangerous antics. This weekend, with the help of our law enforcement partners, we made inroads. We will continue to impound, arrest, and seek costly fines for those individuals who choose Atlanta for this senseless behavior,” APD Chief Erika Shields said in a statement.

The arrests and investigation was a collaborative effort between the Atlanta Police Department, the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office, the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Atlanta Department of Corrections and Georgia’s State Patrol. “We could not have done this without the assistance of these agencies, and our ability to work together toward our common goal to stop these behaviors on local streets and highways. It truly was a team effort,” said Deputy Chief Terrell Griffin said.