Tips About Street Racing Event Lead To Arrests In Brandon Area: Video

BRANDON, FL — In an effort to combat illegal street races, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office executed "Operation Safe Street" on Friday in Brandon and its surrounding neighborhoods.

"Operation Safe Street" was launched in response to tips that a significant number of illegal street races were planning a street takeover in the area.

During "Operation Safe Street," deputies made 11 traffic stops, handed out eight criminal citations and four spectator citations and made four arrests.

Additionally, two vehicles were impounded as a result of the operation, with one vehicle subject to a 30-day hold due to the nature of the violations.

Many of the citations issued during the operation involved juvenile drivers and passengers participating in the street takeover event, noted Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister.

"Parents, I am pleading with you to warn your children about the dangers of participating in these events," said Chronister. "We are sending a strong and unmistakable message: reckless behavior will not be tolerated in our community."

If you see or know of a street-racing event, contact the sheriff's office at 813-247-8200.