Los Angeles Police Combat Street Hijacking Crisis
The Los Angeles Police Department has made numerous arrests this year to tackle the increasing issue of street hijacking, according to Chief Jim McDonnell.
Mayor Karen Bass revealed last month that there will be heightened patrols in downtown Los Angeles. Officials have noted that illegal gatherings—where car enthusiasts often cause chaos through burnouts and other reckless behavior—have become more frequent since January.
These events, often organized via social media, typically take place on weekend nights across both Los Angeles and Orange County.
Cars often obstruct intersections to create spaces for drivers to perform stunts, while groups of spectators gather to film the activities. Passengers can be seen leaning out of car windows, adding to the danger.
Even when accidents are avoided, authorities indicate that these hijacking events disrupt traffic, damage roads, generate noise, and create litter, all of which affect local residents and businesses.
McDonnell mentioned on KTLA that last year, officers responded to about 700 such events, initiated 1,700 traffic stops, and issued over 1,700 citations for related disturbances.
Nearly 300 arrests were made during last year’s takeovers, and it seems the department is on a similar path this year. But the sheer number of participants often complicates enforcement efforts.
“Just look at how many people gather around,” McDonnell commented, noting the crowd density. “There are also individuals on surrounding blocks.”
The hijacking incidents attract not only cars but also many bystanders who block off roads and sidewalks. McDonnell explained that the large crowds make it difficult for police units to intervene effectively.
When officers do manage to break up a takeover, they are frequently outmatched. “You often have one or two police cars against a massive crowd,” he said.
To counteract the rise in hijacking, the police department has established a task force. These incidents are particularly challenging because they can be organized online just hours before they occur or can happen spontaneously.
“Preventing them is tough,” McDonnell said. “They pop up out of nowhere, and we do our best to monitor online activity to anticipate them.”
Authorities have identified increased patrols as a successful strategy against hijacking. Following a violent takeover near the Circa LA Apartments last month, Bass announced strategic police deployments throughout downtown.
According to her office, this new initiative will include police cars, mounted officers, foot patrols, and undercover teams in the area.
“The situation at Circa LA Apartments was unacceptable,” Bass stated. “We have a strict policy against street takeovers.”
City officials plan to maintain a strong police presence as they work to prevent future hijacking events, aiming to reassure the public that the city center remains safe.
