DETROIT – Detroit police are sending a clear message to those participating in illegal street parties, drifting and drag racing: This isn’t harmless fun — it’s a crime.
Officers conducted an enforcement operation Sunday, July 26, at Milwaukee and Wetherby, targeting participants in illegal street activity. The results were significant: 65 vehicles investigated, nine vehicles impounded, 53 ordinance violations issued, one firearm recovered and one fleeing and eluding incident.
In total, 92 individuals were investigated — 46 male residents, 21 male non-residents, 16 female residents and nine female non-residents.
Not just a nuisance
Captain John Stewart of the Detroit Police Department says these car meet-ups are rarely just gatherings.
“These car meet-ups normally serve as catalysts for drifting and drag racing activity,” Stewart said.
Stewart made clear that the effects ripple far beyond noise complaints.
“It disturbs me when rogue illegal activity tries to hide itself and camouflage itself in a general culture in the city of Detroit,” he said. “This is taking over sections of our city, often super late at night.”
“Holding these sections hostage by blocking off traffic, making large amounts of noise by drifting and drag racing, making it a hazard for citizens,” Stewart added.
Consequences are real
Police say participation — even as a bystander — carries serious consequences.
“If you’re caught doing the spinning or spectating it, your car is forfeited,” Stewart said.
During Sunday’s operation, one driver fled the scene. Detroit police say the vehicle has since been identified and officers are actively searching for the driver.
The Detroit Police Department says these enforcement efforts reflect its broader commitment to improving public safety and addressing reckless, unlawful behavior.
“That has no place on the streets of Detroit,” the department said in a statement.