The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office arrested nine individuals after they took part in a street racing event held earlier this month.
On Saturday, January 9, 2021, undercover deputies were on scene when the street racing began in the parking lot of the Bass Pro Shops, located at 10501 Palm River Road in Tampa. Prior to the event, HCSO had received information it was happening and was taking a proactive approach to curb street racing as part of "Operation Burnout."
Once the street racing was underway, deputies observed several individuals doing burnouts, donuts, and driving recklessly through the parking lot. With the assistance of HCSO's Aviation Unit, marked patrol units moved into the parking lot. At this time, the crowds began to disperse from the scene. Nine men were arrested for Reckless Driving in connection to the street racing event. Their mugshots and charges are provided below.
Throughout the course of the operation, deputies, along with HCSO's Motor Unit, also conducted 139 traffic stops and issued 106 citations and 40 warnings.
"Street racing has no place here in Hillsborough County," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "This dangerous and reckless behavior will land you behind bars. This is not a game. Street racing can destroy lives, and we've unfortunately seen that scenario play out in our county in recent years. I hope 'Operation Burnout' will serve as an example to others who think about street racing in our community."
Additional arrests are potentially forthcoming.
