(DENVER, Colo.) – The Colorado State Patrol joined 19 Denver area law enforcement agencies on the evening of Saturday, May 29 in an effort to curb dangerous and illegal street racing. Approximately 50 officers, both on the ground and in the air, were able to join or monitor groups located in Denver, Aurora, Longmont, Brighton, and Lone Tree. While most of the groups were relatively small, totaling approximately 25 participants each, the largest group in Lone Tree was estimated to have approximately 400-500 vehicles at one point. The group joined together for approximately an hour but disbanded in small groups. Uniformed and undercover officers were in the area, and conducting traffic stops nearby.
“Street racing has and continues to be a dangerous game with lethal consequences,” says Captain Matthew Beaudin of the Colorado State Patrols Investigative Services Section. “We hear the complaints of citizens, we have seen the results of it, and we are taking actions to stop it from happening. There is never a reason to conduct illegal street racing, especially when there are alternatives available.”
While the operation was being conducted a legal racing event was happening at Pikes Peak International Raceway, drawing some normal participants away from the illegal activities. Other options, such as the nationally recognized Take It to the Track program held weekly at Bandimere Speedway, give street racers a safe, legal alternative. Still, even without racing being conducted by these groups, other illegal activities often are, including property damage, weapons violations, drug crimes, and stolen vehicles and parts.
Despite the success of the operation, law enforcement is still asking for help from the public. The operation was timed to coincide with the long holiday weekend but illegal events are still happening other times. The website ReportStreetRacing.com has been set up to allow the public to report events, groups, or information about illegal racing activities. Anyone witnessing racing happening is encouraged to safely contact authorities right away to report it.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the Governor and other dignitaries’ protection, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more.