457 drivers stopped, 32 arrested in crackdown on Tampa-area bridges: FHP

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Thirty-two people were arrested in a multi-agency crackdown on Tampa-area bridges, the Florida Highway Patrol said Tuesday.

During Operation Keep Our Streets, the FHP, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Clearwater, Pinellas Park, St. Petersburg Police Departments and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office “put an end to street racing.”

According to FHP, the focus of the operation was on the Gandy Bridge and the Courtney Campbell Causeway – two locations that police say have made headlines due to recent street racing incidents in which drivers were arrested for traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph.

“This campaign is intended to show the population how important it is to obey traffic rules and avoid reckless driving. It is a testament to our commitment to the safety and well-being of our population,” Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement: “We are grateful for the support and commitment of all agencies involved. Together we are making our roads safer for our residents.”

The Howard Frankland Bridge, another area known for street racing, was exempt from Monday’s crackdown due to construction work. However, the FHP said reckless driving and speeding on the bridge would not be tolerated.

“The behavior that accompanies such activities is completely unacceptable,” Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said in a statement. “These street takeovers not only endanger participants, but also create a dangerous situation for innocent motorists. Tampa Police want to send a clear message that those who choose to engage in such reckless activities will be arrested, and this updated law now makes these individuals even more accountable for their actions.”

The action coincides with the passage of Senate Bill 1764, which increases the maximum penalty for participants in street racing or street takeovers. The bill also revises penalties for repeat offenders and increases penalties and fines for anyone who knowingly obstructs emergency vehicles responding to emergency calls due to street racing or street takeovers.

“Our ongoing partnerships with other law enforcement agencies enable us to combat reckless driving and make our roads safer. The goal is to prevent serious injuries and fatal accidents,” said St. Petersburg Police Department Deputy Chief Michael Kovacsev.

During Operation Keep Our Streets, authorities conducted 457 traffic stops for unsafe driving behavior, including speeding, violating traffic laws, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving with a suspended license, violating the eluding law, attempting to flee, drug possession and street racing.

Officers also issued 162 traffic violations, 295 traffic citations, five drunk driving arrests, 18 criminal charges and two street racing arrests.

“FHP is committed to keeping Florida’s roads safe for everyone,” said Dave Kerner, FLHSMV executive director. “This effort and its success reflect our commitment and serve as a warning to those who endanger public safety. FHP vigorously enforces traffic and criminal laws to protect our citizens and visitors.”

Anyone who becomes aware of illegal street racing, street takeovers or stunt driving is asked to call FHO (*347) or 911. More information can be found here.