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Like numerous other cities in the Los Angeles area, the City of Paramount has grappled with the challenge of street racing and intersection takeovers. The frequency of these safety threats has prompted extensive efforts by the City to deter these dangerous activities and protect pedestrians.
Paramount exists in close proximity to many freeways, making the City easily susceptible to various forms of reckless driving. Our commitment to protecting neighborhoods and ensuring resident safety led to action in 2020. Two ordinances were enacted to regulate these nuisance activities, allowing for vehicle forfeiture and providing spectators with steep administrative fines.
While many existing state laws categorize these crimes as misdemeanors, which creates challenges for local court prosecution by law enforcement, Paramount’s ordinances offer greater enforcement powers to City Hall. Since 2020, Paramount has worked to find a balance between proactive measures and timely responses to mitigate this issue, proving resident safety remains at the forefront of all City decisions.
Three short years later, the City has consistently achieved significant milestones, and 2023 was no exception. During 2023, Paramount law enforcement experienced:
- 199 service calls received related to street racing activity;
- 183 spectator citations issued;
- $366,000 in fines administered;
- 54 traffic citations issued;
- 43 arrests made;
- 41 vehicles impounded;
- 14 vehicles processed through forfeiture.
In an effort to enhance street safety, the City is taking active steps to combat illegal street racing and intersection takeovers through their new Tips for Rewards program. The City is offering up to $500 for information that leads to the arrest of those involved in these dangerous activities. Additionally, individuals could earn an extra $500 for providing court testimony that results in a conviction. Residents are encouraged to call (562) 623-3500 when they see an intersection takeover starting to form. Together we can combat this issue and prioritize resident safety.
Helpful Links
https://library.qcode.us/lib/paramount_ca/pub/municipal_code/item/title_10-chapter_10_48?view=all
https://library.qcode.us/lib/paramount_ca/pub/municipal_code/item/title_10-chapter_10_52?view=all
