The dangers of illegal sideshows have been highlighted once again after a teenage girl was arrested in Merced, California, on Saturday night. The 16-year-old girl was arrested for exhibition of speed, driving without a license and resisting officers at the Tractor Supply parking lot at Coffee Street and Mission Avenue in south Merced.
The police received several reports about the illegal sideshow, which is estimated to have had between 50 and 80 people in attendance. Officers were able to break up the event, and the girl’s vehicle was impounded for 30 days.
This incident is just one of many that have occurred in the past few months. In Fresno, several of these illegal and reckless events have been broken up by police who have warned anyone caught hanging around videotaping sideshows can also face legal consequences. In Turlock, a Tracy man was shot to death at a New Year’s Eve sideshow, police there said.
It is important to note that these sideshows are illegal and can carry serious consequences. Not only could participants be arrested, but innocent bystanders, including children, can be injured or killed. It is also important to remember that these events are not only illegal, but also dangerous and should be avoided.
If you witness a sideshow, it is important to contact the police immediately. Letting law enforcement know about these events will help to keep everyone safe and help to prevent future tragedies.
