Kent Police arrested a 19-year-old Sumner man on 15 criminal counts after an investigation into illegal street racing organizers, the Kent Police Department said.
According to police, the department’s Crime Reduction Unit recently completed an investigation that led to the arrest of the man, whom police described as a repeat offender and prolific street racing organizer. Police said he had been setting up races in Kent and neighboring cities.
“Arresting the organizers of these street racing events sends a strong message to the community that the Kent Police Department is committed to reducing the number of street racing events occurring in our city, and that we intend to hold those suspects who are organizing these events responsible,” Kent Patrol Commander Meyer said.
Police said patrol officers respond to street racing incidents to break up gatherings and arrest participants, while follow-up investigations can continue for weeks afterward.
The department said arresting people who arrange illegal races is intended to deter future events in Kent and nearby South King County communities, including Auburn, Tukwila, SeaTac, Burien, Des Moines, White Center and Normandy Park.
Meyer said the department recognizes the public safety threat illegal street racing events pose to participants, spectators and residents.
“We will continue to respond to and investigate these incidents and charge those responsible,” Meyer said.
