A multiagency task force that hit the streets the same day of an on-track drifting competition in Stockton created some controversy and was criticized online for what some claim was targeted enforcement.

But the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office stands behind the mission that it says kept county residents safe.

On Sunday, June 25, the Sheriff’s Office joined the California Highway Patrol, the Stockton, Manteca, and Lathrop Police Departments, and the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office Investigations Unit in an effort it says hinged on preventing on-track driving at the Stockton 99 Speedway from spilling over onto public roadways.

It is something that they said has happened when events like the “Outlaw Drift Day” being held at the Stockton 99 Speedway have been held in the past.

The enforcement effort resulted in 98 traffic stops, 41 citations that were issued, and 22 recommendations to the state referee. A total of 15 vehicles were also impounded, and officers also reportedly made 5 firearms-related arrests, two pursuit arrests, and 5 additional arrests related to sideshow activity.  

“While some media displayed this mission as targeted, we want to ensure our community that this sideshow mission prevented unlawful and dangerous driving on the roadways of San Joaquin County and within the Stockton city limits,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a statement. “In the past, drifting competitions similar to events like the Outlaw Drift Day have led to illegal sideshow activity off the track, resulting in dangers to our community that have ended in injuries and event death.

“Our primary focus will stay committed to the safety of the public.”

Law enforcement agencies throughout San Joaquin County have been vocal about their ongoing effort to combat illegal sideshows – where high-powered cars spin donuts and break traction in open concrete or asphalt areas – because of the danger that accompany them.

Originally conceived in Oakland, sideshows throughout California have been the site of injuries and deaths to both drivers and spectators when vehicles crash or spin out of control into crowds.

Shooting deaths have also occurred.

While events like the Outlaw Drift Day do provide car enthusiasts with a legal alternative, law enforcement says that people still don’t do the things that they need to do in order to keep the activity legal.

“Our message to motor sport enthusiast (sic) is clear – if you wish to participate in these events, are do so legally in lawfully,” the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office said in a release about the operation. “Participating in this activity at the Stockton 99 Speedway is legal; however, illegally modified vehicles on public roadways are not.

“We recommend that if your vehicle is modified to participate in this extracurricular activity, you trailer your vehicle and keep it off public roadways.”

To contact Bulletin reporter Jason Campbell email jcampbell@mantecabulletin.com or call 209.249.3544.