Crackdown on street racing in Vaughan leads to hundreds of charges

Thestar.com
August 24, 2020

York Regional Police released aerial footage of what appears to show street racing in Vaughan after a crackdown resulted in the laying of 390 driving offences.

“Project Dragnet” began in July and involved police positioning themselves at corners known to attract racing each weekend.

The footage released -- assembled from different incidents over the past few weeks -- apparently shows drivers squaring off to race each other along the highway, three arrests and drivers crowded together at busy intersections.

Twenty-eight drivers were stopped for racing or vehicle modifications throughout, and 10 criminal charges and 34 provincial offences were laid in addition to the 390 driving offences. Thirteen were also arrested, and 21 saw their cars towed and licences suspended.

“York Regional Police is making stunt driving offences a high priority to ensure the safety of our streets for those people who are driving to work or going out for essential items,” according to a media release from the police.

“Anyone caught driving more than 50 kilometres per hour over the posted speed limit can expect to be charged, have their vehicle towed and their licence suspended.”

Police did not release any information about the locations monitored. Major Mackenzie Drive West is mentioned in the footage.

Anyone who spots what they believe to be life-threatening speeding should call 911 immediately, police said. Those who spot drivers gathering in large crowds can also call the police non-emergency line at 1-866-876-5423.