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HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 27 - Anti-Cruising Ordinance Informational Report Police Department www.santa-ana.org/pd Item # 27 City of Santa Ana 20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701 Staff Report November 15, 2022 TOPIC: Anti-Cruising Ordinance Informational Report AGENDA TITLE: Informational Report Relating to the City’s Anti-Cruising Ordinance RECOMMENDED ACTION It is recommended that the City Council accept the informational report and consider one of the following options: 1. Direct staff to return to the City Council with additional information. 2. Leave the anti-cruising ordinance as is (i.e., make no changes to the Santa Ana Municipal Code relating to cruising).’ 3. Direct staff to prepare an ordinance to repeal the anti-cruising ordinance. 4. Take no action. DISCUSSION At the July 19, 2022 meeting, Councilmembers Mendoza and Hernandez added the following councilmember requested item: Discuss and Consider Directing the City Manager to Direct Staff to Prepare an Ordinance Repealing the Anti-Cruising Ordinance and Establishing a Cruising Policy for Consideration by the City Council. There was consensus among the City Council to have the Police Department prepare an informational report relating to the City's anti-cruising ordinance, including options and a recommendation whether or not to repeal the City’s regulations pertaining to motor vehicle cruising (“anti-cruising ordinance”). Overview of the City’s Cruising Ordinance The City’s anti-cruising ordinance (Exhibit 1) has been in place since 1989. Santa Ana has long been considered one of the most popular locations for cruising, attracting car clubs and enthusiasts from all over California. While cruising has been part of Santa Ana's rich history and culture, its effects have resulted in quality-of-life issues for residents and business owners alike—such as traffic congestion, noise, fighting, vandalism, damaging/defacing public streets, drinking, drug use, and violent crime. These issues are evidenced by complaints received by residents and businesses. Anti-Cruising Ordinance Informational Report November 15, 2022 Page 2 3 0 7 9 Staff has observed that cruising escalates on major holidays, such as Easter Sunday, Cinco de Mayo, and other special days, such as days following major sporting events. The intensity of cruising and accompanying activities during major holidays and other special days exacerbate the adverse effects that accompany cruising. In response, the Santa Ana Police Department has historically staffed additional uniformed personnel on weekends for decades to keep cruising and related issues under control. Although the City’s anti-cruising ordinance has been in place since 1989, cruising is still prevalent. Cruising and street takeovers share many characteristics and similarities. For example, cruising and takeovers often begin with meet-ups, also referred to as “park and chills” (“P/Cs”), at predetermined locations where the organizers might believe they will be met with the least amount of police presence and enforcement. At these P/Cs, attendees and spectators may take over parking lots and may often deface the surface with "burnouts”, costing business owners repair costs and lost profits. The Police Department continues to experience problems with lowrider clubs that occupy shopping centers and parking lots where participants do “burnouts.” In addition, it is common for participants to consume alcohol, litter, and loudly rev their engines to show off their exhaust systems, creating various problems for the area residents. These new types of events are typically promoted by social media platforms and the entertainment industry. Oftentimes, these events draw car enthusiasts and organizers from out of town. These effects are evidenced by observations by the Police Department and informed by complaints received by the public. During Intersection/Street Takeovers (“ITOs”), Street Racing (“S/R”), and Park and Chills (“P/Cs”), it is not uncommon to have significant intersections blocked by two to three hundred spectators watching vehicles doing "donuts." The spectators, often with violent behavior, serve as "blockers" to protect the drivers from the police while doing "donuts". These events often can have up to 500 vehicles that take over shopping centers and business complexes, with little to no benefit to surrounding businesses. These events often result in defaced surfaces with tire marks, along with numerous noise complaints from those activities. To the community’s detriment, the transformation from cruising to the latest trend has intensified the same problems that communities have been experiencing for decades. To illustrate the effects of crusing and related activities, below is a sample list of recent, significant incidents that have occurred in Southern California: 1. "Two people were shot dead and five others wounded by gunfire at Los Angeles park on Sunday after shooting broke out at an informal car show in the community of San Pedro…." – Reuters 2. "Orange County Register editor killed in Santa Ana crash – Eugene Harbrecht was making a turn in his truck when a racing car slammed into it…." – Orange County Register Anti-Cruising Ordinance Informational Report November 15, 2022 Page 3 3 0 7 9 3. "Driver gets one year in jail for Costa Mesa street takeover crash that killed cousin" – Orange County Register 4. "Woman injured in takeover crash on Anaheim Plaza Marketplace [Anaheim, CA]" – ABC7.com 5. "Teenager shot and killed during street takeover in Willowbrook" – Los Angeles Times 6. "Traffic deaths on the rise as pandemic eases; aggressive and distracted drivers on the road." – NHTSA Report For more information, these articles are attached to the staff report (Exhibits 2-7). Law Encorcement’s Response to Cruising and Related Activities: STEARRD In response to this multi-faceted problem, Orange County's law enforcement agencies developed a comprehensive program, dubbed Strategic Traffic Enforcement Against Racing and Reckless Driving (or “STEARRD” for short). The Orange County District Attorney's Office has supported the program by being deeply involved and aggressively prosecuting violators engaged in this trend. As a result, these activities have reduced drastically. Since its inception in 2020, the STEARRD program has culminated in over 6,000 citations (2,575 issued by SAPD), nearly 300 vehicles impounded, 225 reckless driving and racing- related arrests, and 140 other arrests (10 gun arrests and 20 DUI arrests). These statistical data are not exclusive to intersections takeovers; they are extremely common at P/Cs as well. In addition, Police Department resources are often stretched to the limit to address a high volume of calls for service (CFS) for noise complaints, disturbance complaints, fighting, drug use, and other illegal-related acts attributable to ITOs, P/C, and S/R. Repeal of Cruising Laws in Other Cities: National City, CA Other municipalities that have similar anti-cruising ordinances have considered repealing the ordinance as well. In the case of National City in San Diego County, which also has an ordinance that bans cruising, their city recently implemented a pilot program to sanction cruising events for three months at the urging of lowrider groups. Below is an excerpt from the email response from a National City Police Department sergeant to the Police Department’s request for feedback regarding their recent attempt to begin the repeal process (Exhibit 9): "The end result was the cruise was put on as planned and over 250 cars showed up to the event with more than 500 spectators. Businesses complained that spectators took over their parking lots without contributing to the business. Numerous vandalisms occurred to surrounding businesses, fights broke out, calls of 417 [firearms violations] came in and traffic was severely impacted well into 11 pm which was over 2 hours past the agreed upon time. Anti-Cruising Ordinance Informational Report November 15, 2022 Page 4 3 0 7 9 The city council went back to the negotiation table with the low rider coalition and laid out a plan that would use police resources to provide extra security. There was a significant cost associated with the new permit rules up in the area of $15k. The coalition claimed the cost to put on a monthly cruise was too astronomical and went as far as reaching out to the media and making a statement that the City and the police department were trying to gouge the low rider coalition." As observed in National City, the pilot program was not successful. Conclusion Legitimate and enjoyable social events, such as car shows, should be conducted in a permitted, lawful, and safe way. The Police Department’s past experience, as informed by complaints from residents and businesses, has shown that cruising transforms into activities that adversely affect the quality-of-life of the community. The City’s current anti- cruising ordinance, though infrequently used, has served as a policy that helps keep our streets safe. The Santa Ana Police Department advises strongly against the proposition to repeal the anti-cruising ordinance. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT There is no environmental impact associated with this action. FISCAL IMPACT There is no fiscal impact associated with this action. EXHIBIT(S) 1.Santa Ana Ordinance Repealing SAMC Provisions regarding Cruising 2. ABC7.com article, dated July 24, 2022 3. Orange County Register article, dated July 30, 2020 4. Orange County Register article, dated August 10, 2021 5. Sweet Lawyers, Attorney at Law, dated October 22, 2020 6. LA Times article, dated August 16, 2022 7. NHTSA report dated 2021 8. Email from National City Police Department Sergeant 9. Draft Ordinance Repealing the anti-cruising ordinance for discussion only Submitted By: David Valentin, Police Chief Approved By: Kristine Ridge, City Manager 9/1 9/22, 10:55 AM 2 dead, 5 injured atker gunfire erupts near Peck Park in San Per3ro - ABC7 Los Angeles ABC7 Eyewitness News 2 dead, 5 injured after gunfire erupts near Peck Park in San Pedro B'yt ABC7.COm Siaff V!a @ Sunday, July 24, 2022 n V 82 Top Stories 1 shot during robbery in Encino, LAP... 3 hours ago Queen Elizabeth II mourned by... 1 hour agO son overdos... l' EMBED <> ' j' MORE VIDEOS ] Two people were killed and five others injured when gunfire broke out at a park in San Pedro on Sunday, police say. SAN PEDRO, LOS ANGELES (KABC)-Two people were killed and five others iniured when WATCH LJ LL 11 sxlJLJ5 p tj A 1 u u 1} 14J 0 CA woman sentenced to 18 months f... 25 minutes ago W. H;? watch prem ere LOG IN https://abc7.com/san-pedro-shooting-peck-park-car-show-lafd/1 2070920/ 9/19/22, 10:55 AM 2 dead, 5 injured affer gunfire erupts near Peck Park in San Pedro - ABC7 Los Angeles Authorities later said two people had died at the hospital. The incident was reported at or near a car show at Peck Park, on N. Western Avenue just before 4 p.m. Police said although the shooting was in the vicinity of the show where hundreds of people had gathered, it did not appear the shooting happened at the show itself. Witnesses said hundreds of people were gathered for the car show and other activities around the park. When gunfire erupted, people immediately ran from the scene in terror. "All of a sudden we heard three shots - pow pow pow," said witness Dwayne Ellis. "Then we heard about 5o or zoo more-pow pow, boom boom. All kinds of shots. People were running." Police say the incident began as a dispute between two people in the area of the baseball diamond at the park. They said it was not considered an active-shooter situation. Police are investigating the likelihood there was more than one shooter exchanging gunfire. The Los Angeles Fire Department said four males and three females were taken to local hospitals. Police cordoned off the area around the park as they investigated the shooting. Dramatic video shows powerful mudslide rushing past Forest Falls home 2 hours ago Pregnant Texas woman fatally shot 1 day before her baby shower I hour ago Jailed religious leader addresses followers from Los Angeles prison https://abc7.com/san-pedro-shooting-peck-park-car-show-lafd/1 2070920/ 9/19/22, 10:55 AM 2 dead, 5 injured after gunfire erupts near Peck Park in San Pedro - ABC7 Los Angeles Information about the suspected shooters was not immediately available. Get ABC7 breaking news as it happens right in your inbox Sign up for our breaking newsletter Email Address* Name@emaildotcom Yes! I would like to receive the Breaking News/Live Video Alerts Newsletter. By creating an account, I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the yPolicy and California Privacy Notice. Sign Up Report A Correction Or Typo Copyright (c 2022 KABC Television, LLC. All rights reserved. https://abc7.com/san-pedro-shooting-peck-park-car-show-lafd/1 2070920/ 9/19/22, 11:51 AM Orange County Register editor killed in Santa Ana crash - Orange County Register NEWS > CRIME AND PUBLIC SAFETY a News Orange County Register editor kUlled in Santa Aria crash Eugene Harbrecht was making a turn in his truck when a racing car slammed into it, police said. Two men were arrested on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter, one while being intoxicated. A man in his 60s died Thursday, July 30, affer the truck he was driving was struck by a sedan racing another vehicle in Santa Ana. (Photo courtesy of the Santa Ana Police Department) By ALMA FAUSTO l afausto@scng.com l Orange County Register PI IR m I IU)nATFn- https://www.ocregister.com/2020/07/30/car-racing-in-santa-ana-street-strikes-passing-truck-killing-driver/ 9/19/22, 11:51 AM Orange County Register editor killed in Santa Ana crash - Orange County Register Alongtime Orange County Register editor died Thursday after his truck was hit by a BMW involved in a street race with another car, authorities said. Eugene Harbrecht, a Santa Ana resident, was 67 years old. He worked for the Register since March 1984, most recently as the national and international.n.q.ws, editor for the greater Southern California News Group. Gene Harbrecht The crash that resulted in his death happened at about 11:45 a.m. on Bristol Street and Santa Clara Avenue, said Santa Ana police Cpl. Anthony Bertagna. Related: Gene Harbrecht, a lo ame R er editor, was a 'newsman to his core' Before the crash, witnesses reported that a silver BMW sedan and a dark colored Infiniti sedan were racing at high speeds northbound on Bristol Street. The BMW slammed into a Ford Ranger that was traveling southbound on Bristol and turning left on Santa Clara, Bertagna said. The impact pushed the truck about 60 feet into a fence where it started to catch fire. "There were two guys who live in the area that went and broke the window and pulled the victim out (of the truck)," Bertagna said. Officers arrived soon after and put out the fire with an extinguisher. Harbrecht was taken to UC Irvine Medical Center hospital, where he died. The https://www.ocregister.com/2020/07/30/car-racing-in-santa-ana-street-strikes-passing-truck-killing-driver/ 9/19/22, 11:51 AM Orange County Register editor killed in Santa Ana crash - Orange County Register Orange County Register editor Eugene Harbrecht. (Photo by Nick Koon, Orange County Register/SCNG) The Infiniti involved in the race fled the scene, Bertagna said. A witness reported the sedan's license plate number to police, who found the car a few hours later and stopped it at a post office off First Street near Pacific Avenue. The driver was identified as RicanJo Tulento Navarro, 24, of Santa Ana, and taken into custody. He was booked into the Santa Ana Jail on suspicion of vehicular manslaughter. The crash knocked down wires and Bristol was closed from 1 7th Street to Memory Lane. Bertagna said police are seeing an uptick in street racing in recent months. This is the second fatality related to racing in the city this year. "We've always had street racing," he said. "We're seeing it more. People aren't working, they're at home, less cars on the road and I guess they decide to street race. But people lose their lives." https://www.ocregister.com/2020/07/30/car-racing-in-santa-ana-street-strikes-passing-truck-killing-driver/ 9/1 9/22, 11 :40 AM Driver gets 1 year in jail for Costa Mesa street takeover crash that killed cousin - Orange County Register NEWS > CRIME AND PUBLIC SAFETY a News Driver gets I year in jail for Costa Mesa street takeover crash that killed cousin jl, iiTJ dl L 111 +i I s id , . ) . . , : A : l! Cosia Mesa Police Depadment Malor Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) work scene of an early moming fatal accident at the intersection of Sunflower Avenue and Hyland Avenue in Costa Mesa Thursday moming ,October 22, 2020. (Photo by Richard Koehler. Conl+ibuling Photographer) By SEAN EMERY semery@scng.com Orange County Register PU BLISH ED: August S O, 2021 at 1 :47 p.m. UPDATED: August T0, 2021 at 2:07 p.m. Over objections from prosecutors, a driver who pleaded guilty to vehicular manslaughter for a crash that killed his cousin and injured two bystanders during a street takeover in Costa Mesa was sentenced to one year in jail and then quickly freed after receiving credit for time served while awaitingtrial. Mynor Augusto Esquivelvalle spent less than a year behind bars following his arrest for the act. 22, 2020 rollover crash that took the life of his cousin, 23-year-old Sergio Marroquin, Jr. Esquivelvalle last week agreed to a judge's offer requiring he plead guilty to felony vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence and reckless driving causing injury charges, as well as admit to a sentencing enhancement for inflicting great bodily injury, court records show. OrangeCountySuperiorCourtJudgeAndreManssouriansentencedEsquivelvalletooneyearinjailandthreeyearsprnhqtinn After receiving more than a year's worth of credit for time served behind bars while awaiting trial, Esquivelvalle was immediately released, https://www.ocregister.com/2021/08/1 0/driver-gets-l -year-in-jail-for-street-takeover-crash-that-killed-his-cousin/ 9/1 9/22, 11:40 AM Driver gets 1 year in jail for Costa Mesa street takeover crash that killed cousin - Orange County Register Had he been convicted at trial, the vehicular manslaughter charge alone would have carried a potential six-year sentence. "This individual showed no regard for the safety of anyone at this illegal event or even anyone else on the road that day - and he ended up killing his own cousin as a result," Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said in a statement about the sentence. "Street racers must be held accountable for their actions and a slap on the wrist court offer sends the wrong message. These are deadly and violent crimes and they must be treated that way." Esquivelvalle's cousin's family did not want him to serve a "severe punishment," prosecutors acknowledged in court filings, and the two other individuals struck in the crash reportedly did not want to be involved in the criminal case. Family members could not be reached for comment Tuesday. But prosecutors also contended that Esquivelvalle has "shown no remorse" for a death and injuries caused by his own "dangerous driving maneuvers" and allege during the investigation he repeatedly lied to police about the cause of the crash and his involvement in a large street takeover. Costa Mesa officers responding to Highland and Sunflower avenues just before 2:30 a.m. on Oct. 22 found a large group of between 60 and 70 cars and TOO to 150 pedestrians blocking off the intersection. A 2019 Chevrolet Colorado was on its side and a man was laying in the street. The man, later identified as Marroquin, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other bystanders reportedly struck by the vehicle were later contacted by police at local hospitals. According to testimony by traffic investigators at a previous hearing, Esquivelvalle admitted to officers at the scene of the crash that he was the owner and driver of the pickup truck, but claimed that another car had struck his vehicle while he was driving through the intersection, dragging his cousin from the vehicle. Based on witness statements and surveillance interviews, detectives believe that Esquivelvalle was doing doughnuts in his pickup truck - driving in cirdes - while Marroquin was hanging on the outside of the truck on the passenger side door. The pickup struck the two bystanders, prosecutors allege, before rolling over and crushing Marroquin. The car meet that night was organized by an online group that had set up other street takeovers, spreading word of the gatherings through social media. The group first descended upon the Anaheim Plaza parking lot on Euclid Street at around 1:30 a.m. Witnesses told police that Esquivelvalle and Marroquin were among those at the Anaheim meetup and were watching when another vehicle doing doughnuts in the lot hit an S 8-year-old woman. The two men, along with much of the rest ofthe group of car enthusiasts, then drove to the Costa Mesa intersection, according to court filings. Law enforcement officials across Southern California an u ' in street take-overs and street races ' the ' as stay-at-home orders resulted in less congested roadways and work and street closures left car aficionados with more time to fill. The temporary dosure of venues that play host to legitimate car shows also left some enthusiasts opting for less-than-legal alternatives to show off their tricked-out vehicles. With no barriers between vehicles driven by mostly young drivers and onlookers, a single mistake at the meetups could have deadly consequences, sending souped-up cars into a crowd of people. "Street takeovers are illegal, they are dangerous, and they are increasingly deadly," Spitzer said. "Inexperienced drivers speeding dangerously close to crowds of spectators is killing street racers, spectators, and innocent bystanders and it has to stop." Newsroom Guidelines News Tips Contact Us Report an Error [7The Trust Project Tags: court, TopStoriesOCR ""' ufhor Sean Emery l Reporter Sean Emery is a crime and public safety reporter for the Register who covers state and federal courts and criminal justice issues. He https://www.ocregister.com/2021/08/1 0/driver-gets-1-year-in-jail-for-street-takeover-crash-that-killed-his-cousin/ S SWEET LAWYERS WOMAN INJURED IN TAKEOVER CRASH ON ANAHEIM PLAZA MARKETPLACE [ANAHEIM, CAI E' By Jhnna Mri m October 22, 2 €)20 asnii ui Woman Injured in Takeover Crash on Anaheim Plaza Marketplace [Anaheim, CA] Takeover Crash on Anaheim Plaza Marketplace Injured Woman Anaheim, CA (October 22, 2020) - On Thursday, a woman was injured in a takeover crash on Anaheim Plaza Marketplace. The incident took place at about1:30 a.m. on 430 North Euclid Street. The woman was struck by a vehicle doing donuts in a shopping center parking lot. Apparently, several hundred cars took part in the takeover. Immediately, the rescuers took the victim to a hospital with stable vital signs. Meanwhile, the driver fled the scene after the crash. The authorities later arrested and took them into custody. Practice safe driving habits on the road at all times... even when it is empty, even when there is no police officer around to make sure you make a full and complete stop. What Crash Injury Victims Should Do For people injured in a crash, it is important to have an independent investigation held to better protect your rights. Moreover, hiring the right firm makes all the difference in getting the compensation you deserve. Finding the right lawyer to handle your personal injury case is essential to your success. If you or someone you love are in a similar accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. When you work with us, you will be provided with personalized assistance, aggressive representation, and compassion throughout the entire process. We do more than simply win cases; our purpose is to maximize your recovery and grant you peace of mind, with your future at the forefront. During your initial call, we'll discuss your case at length to determine your legal options. In addition, you won't pay a dime until we settle your case. Call us at (800) 874-7854 to schedule a free consultation with a legal expert near you. Furthermore, you can reach us Request A Police Report If yoii or your fat'nily are involved or affected by this accident and would like the official Police Report of this incident, Sweet Lawyers may be able tO help. Please click here to re:luest the police report. We Can Help FREE CONSULTATION 24/7 Call,(aoo) or request a callback below ""indicates required fields First Name Last Name Phone #Email addri Tell us about your case ONLINE NOW Hi! Alive, real person is available 24/7 at no obligation. STARTCHAT 9/22/22, 8:37 AM Teenager shot, killed during street takeover in Willowbrook - Los Angeles Times ADVERTISEMENT CALIFORNIA Teenager shot and killed duringstreet takeover in Willowbrook By continuing to iise our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. You can learn more abocit how we use cookies by reviewing our Privacy Policy. Close https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-08-1 6/teenager-fatally-shot-during-street-takeover-south-los-angeles 1/9 9/22/22, 8:37 AM Teenager shot, killed during street takeover in Willowbrook - Los Angeles Times An investigation is underway after a teenage boy was shot to death Sunday during a street takeover in the 13400 block of Mettler Avenue in Willowbrook. (KTLA) [osAngeles @imes A teenage boy was shot to death Sunday night during a street takeover in Willowbrook, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department. Detectives responded to a report of a shooting and street racing in the i34oo block of Mettler Avenue at ii:57 p.m., according to a Sheriffs Department news release. Deputies found an unresponsive youth between the ages of i5 to 20, suffering from gunshot wounds, police said. CALIFORNIA $20,000 reward offered for information on double homicide at Compton street takeover Aug. 12, 2022 The youth was pronounced dead at a hospital, according to authorities. Police don't believe the incident to be gang-related. No suspect or vehicle information is available. Anyone with information is urged to contact the L.A. County Sheriffs Department Homicide Bureau at (3z3)8go-55oo. Los Angeles officials have been attem after seeing a surge during the pande By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. YOLI can learn more about how we use cookies by reviewing our Privacy Policy. Close https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-08-1 6/teenager-fatally-shot-during-street-takeover-south-los-angeles 9/22/22, 8:37 AM Teenager shot, killed during street takeover in Willowbrook - Los Angeles Times ordinance that would criminalize promoting, instigating or encouraging such events online. CALIFORNIA 6th Street bridge: A civic wonder diat reflects L.A.'s promise and its simmeffig problems Aug. 2, 2022 PAID CONTENT Healthcare, Biotech, Lifesciences By LA Times Ian Thompson, Senior Vice President, U.S. Business Operations, Amgen Compton, near Willowbrook, spent $4,ooo to install pavement markers called Botts Dots at popular intersections for street takeovers in hopes it would discourage the practice by making the road bumpy. Botts Dots were also installed at the 6th Street Bridge this week in Boyle Heights to discourage street racing. Botts Dots helped curb street racing in Lynwood and Paramount. Ge Life is stressful. Our wet By continciing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. YOLI can learn more about how we use cookies by reviewing our Privacy Policy. Close https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2022-08-1 6/teenager-fatally-shot-during-street-takeover-south-los-angeles 3/9 9/22/22, 8:3i AM 2020 Fatality Data Show Increased Traffic Fatalities During Pandemic I NHTSA U nl fed S Late S D e p Cl rt m e n [ 0 [ T + a n S p O r La Li 0 n Q Search REPORT A SAFETY PROBLEM € NEWS 2020 Fatality Data Show Increased Traffic Fatalities During Pandemic Risky Driving Behaviors Including Failure to Wear a Seatbelt, Speeding, and Drinking While Driving Identified as Contributing Factors Share: f V in June 3, 2021 l Washington, DC The u.s. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration today released preliminary estimates of crash fatalities in 2020 involving motor vehicle occupants, motorcyclists, and people walking and biking. Alongside the release of the 2020 fatality projections, Earl.y Estimate of Motor Vehicle Traffic Fatalities in 2020, the agency issued two special reports, Earl,v Estimates of Motor Vehicle Traffic Fatalities and Fatalit',v Rate by Sub-Categories in ,2020 and Update to Special Reports on Traffic Safety During the COVID-1 9 Public Health Emerqency: Fourth Quarter Data. While Americans drove less in 2020 due to the pandemic, NHTSA's early estimates show that an estimated 38,680 people died in motor vehicle traffic crashes-the largest projected number of fatalities since 2007. This represents an increase of about 7.2 percent as compared to the 36,096 fatalities reported in 2019. Preliminary data from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) shows vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in 2020 decreased by about 430.2 billion miles, or about a 1 3.2-percent decrease. The fatality rate for 2020 was 1.37 fatalities per 100 million VMT, up from 1.11 fatalities per 100 million VMT in 2019. NHTSA's analysis shows that the main behaviors that drove this increase include: impaired driving, speeding and failure to wear a seat belt. https://www.nhtsa 1/4 9/22/22, 8:31 AM 2020 Fatality Data Show Increased Traffic Fatalities During Pandemic i NHTSA "Safety is the top priority for the u.s. Department of Transportation. Loss of life is unacceptable on our nation's roadways and everyone has a role to play in ensuring that they are safe. We intend to use all available tools to reverse these trends and reduce traffic fatalities and injuries," said Dr. Steven Cliff, NHTSA's Acting Administrator. "The President's American Jobs Plan would provide an additional S19 billion in vital funding to improve road safety for all users, including people walking and biking. It will increase funding for existing safety programs and allow for the creation of new ones, with a goal of saving lives." NHTSA's projections show significant increases in fatalities during the third and fourth quarters of 2020 as compared to the corresponding quarters of 2019. NHTSA will continue to carefully analyze various data sources to understand how the risks to vulnerable road users might have changed during 2020 and the contributing factors for the increase. Preliminary finding show that traffic fatalities rose in most major categories over 2019: * Passenger vehicle occupants (23,395, up 5o/o) * Pedestrians (6,236* flat from 2019) * Motorcyclists (5,458,* up 9o/o) * Pedalcyclists (people on bikes) (891,* up 50/0) Crash factors and demographics reviewed by NHTSA that showed the largest increases in 2020 as compared to 2019 included: * non-Hispanic Black people (up 23o/o); * occupant ejection (up 20o*); * unrestrained occupants of passenger vehicles (up 1 5o*); * on urban interstates (up 15o/o); * on urban local/collector roads (up 12o/o); * in speeding-related crashes (up 11 o/o); * on rural local/collector roads (up 1l o/o); * during nighttime (up 11 o/o); * during the weekend (up 9o*); in rollover crashes (up go/o); * in single-vehicle crashes (up 9o*) and; * in police-reported alcohol involvement crashes (up 9o/o). https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/2020-fatality-data-show-increased-traffic-fatalities-during-pandemic 2/4 9/22/22, 8:31 AM 2020 Fatality Data Show Increased Traffic Fatalities During Pandemici NHTSA There are a few categories that are projected to have decreases in fatalities in 2020. Fatalities in crashes involving a large truck (commercial or non-commercial use) are projected to decline marginally (down 2o*). Fatalities among older persons (65+ years of age) are projected to decline by about 9 percent. Special Reports: Last summer, recognizing the unique circumstances, NHTSA researchers began compiling additional data from a wide variety of sources to enhance understanding of what was happening on the roadways during the pandemic. This research led to a series of special reports, including two being issued today: Early Estimates of Motor Vehicle Traffic Fatalities and Fatality Rate by Sub- Cateqories in 2020 and Update to Special Reports on Trafftc Saret.y During the COVID-1 9 Public Health Emerqency: Fourth Quarter Data. These update earlier reports released in October 2019, Druq and Alcohol Prevalence in Seriously and Fatall.y Injured Road Users Before and During the C0VID-19 Public Health Emerqency, and Examination of the Traffic Safety Environment Durinq the Second Quarter of 2020: Special Report and January's Update to Special Reports on Traffic Safety Durinq the COVID-1 9 Public Health Emergency. NHTSA's research suggests that throughout the national public health emergency and associated lockdowns, driving patterns and behaviors changed significantly, and that drivers who remained on the roads engaged in more risky behavior, including speeding, failing to wear seat belts, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Traffic data indicates that average speeds increased throughout the year, and examples of extreme speeds became more common, while the evidence also shows that fewer people involved in crashes used their seat belts. * amended to reflect 2020 estimates Contact: NHTSA NHTSA Media NHTSAmedia@dot.gov 202-366-9550 https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/2020-fatality-data-show-increased-traffic-fatalities-during-pandemic 3/4 9/22/22, 8:3i AM 2020 Fatality Data Show Increased Traffic Fatalities During Pandemic l NHTSA NHTSA Information - Information For- NHTSASites- Website Information, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590 1-888-327-4236 1-800-424-9153 (TTY) V f o Submit Feedback > https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/2020-fatality-data-show-increased-traffic-fatalities-during-pandemic 4/4 Santa Ana PD 2022-20794 Report by Camllo, Daniel3l55 1 of 2 SANTAANA CaseNo. PoliceDepartment 2022-20794 60 Civic Center Plaza "" Santa Ana CA, 92701 Crime Report * CaseType: TRAFFICRELATED Incident Activity Summary: Offenses: 2800.1(a) - EVADING PEACE OFFICER Incident Date/Time: Location Occurred: Occurred: 09/16/2022 21:33:04 Reported: 09/"16/202221:33 W 17TH ST/N COLLEGE AV, Santa Ana, CA 92706 Grid: Dist.: WE Factual Synopsis: We attempted to stop a motorcycle for cvc violations, motorcyclist failed to yield and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit was cancelled in the area of the 1-5 and Jamboree. Stolen/Recovered: (Report-wide)$0.00 / $0.00 SAPD Personnel: Involvement: SAPD Personnel: Involvement: Carrillo, Daniel 3155 Reporting Shin, Richard 2386 Report Approver Narrative: Narrative Santa Ana PD 2022-20794 Report by Carrillo, Daniel3155 2 of 2 On September 16, 2022, at approximately 2133 hours, Officer N. Guijarro and I were working in full uniform in a marked black and white police vehicle. I was the driver and Officer Guijarro was my passenger. We were traveling south on Bristol Street and observed a motorcycle in the #2 lane traveling south. The motorcycle's license plate was tucked under the frame of his motorcycle which is in violation of CVC 5200(a). We attempted to stop the motorcyclist. I activated my emergency lights which include a steady forward facing red light and chirped my siren to pull the motorcyclist over in the area of Bristol and 17th Street. The motorcyclist looked back at us and continued south on Bristol and then west on 1 7th Street. The motorcyclist failed to yield to our emergency lights and traveled west on 1 7th Street. The motorcyclist continued west on 17th Street at a high rate of speed, reaching speeds of over 75 miles per hour in a 40 mile per hour zone in violation of CVC 22350. The motorcyclist made a left turn on to English Street and traveled south on English and east on Washington towards Raitt. The motorcyclist made a right turn on to Raitt Street driving approximately 50 miles per hour in a 25 mile per hour zone. The motorcyclist continued east on Civic Center to Bristol Street where it made a left turn to travel north on Bristol. The motorcyclist continued north on Bristol Street to 17th Street, once we were at 1 7th Street the motorcyclist split lanes to get in front of the traffic. Once the light at 1 7th Street phased green the motorcyclist took off north on Bristol riding approximately 65 miles per hour in a 45 mile per zone. The motorcycle traveled on to the East 1-22 freeway and then on to the 1-5 South. Once the motorcycle traveled on to the freeway the motorcyclist traveled at high rates of speed cutting in and out of traffic at approximately 90 miles an hour plus. We lost sight of the motorcycle at the 1-5 South and Jamboree. Officer Guijarro cancelled the pursuit and we returned to the city. We were unable to obtain the plate of the motorcycle and there were no airships available to assist with the pursuit. The pursuit lasted approximately 6 minutes and traversed 10 miles over city streets and freeway. Corporal Daniel Carrillo Traffic Division Author: Carrillo, Daniel 3155 BWC Activated Shin, Richard From: Sent: To: Subject: Good morning, Miguel Lozano <MLozano@nationalcityca.gov> Thursday, September15, 2022 12:10 Shin, Richard RE: Lifting Ban on Cruising We do currently have an ordinance that bans cruising in our city. There has been push by the local low riding community to repeal the ordinance. They have gone as far as creating a "low rider coalition" that has been working with our city council to negotiate the repealing of the ordinance. Our city council came to an agreement back in May to do a test run of allowing cruising on Friday's as a test pilot to see what issues may arise. The lowrider coalition was granted a permit to cruise for a designated time frame during that day as well as one Friday each month for the next three months. The permit was supposed to cover approximately 50 cars and about 100 spectators. The temporary use permit did not have any police resources calculated into the permit. The end result was the cruise was put on as planned and over 250 cars showed up to the event with more than 500 spectators. Businesses complained that spectators took over their parking lots without contributing to the business. Numerous vandalisms occurred to surrounding businesses, fights broke out, calls of 417 came in and traffic was severely impacted well into 11 pm which was over 2 hours past the agreed upon time. The city council went back to the negotiation table with the low rider coalition and laid out a plan that would use police resources to provide extra security. There was a significant cost associated with the new permit rules up in the area of 515k. The coalition claimed the cost to put on a monthly cruise was too astronomical and went as far as reaching out to the media and making a statement that the city and the police department were trying to gouge the low rider coalition. National City has historically had issues with low rider back in the 90s. Since that time there have been measures taken to curb the cruising by changing the environmental design as well as implementing the cruising. Some of the issues that plagued the last event that was put on are similar to the ones that plagued the events in the 90s. We had a certain member of local car club try to put on unauthorized cruising events back in 2020 at the peak of Covid. Those events were put on in our Mile of Cars area where all the car dealerships are located. The event drew large crowds as well as hundreds of vehicles that impacted the car dealerships and traffic well into our neighboring city. We saw numerous issues with drinking in public, dui drivers and recreational marijuana use by the spectators. One of the challenges we as a department face is that there are members on our city council that are making the push for the repeal of the cruising ordinance and given its an election year the push has been a strong one in order to garner votes. I hope this helps you out. Please let me know if there is any other info I can provide to you. Miguel Lozano From: Shin, Richard [mailto:RShin@santa-ana.org] Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2022 9:03 AM To: Miguel Lozano <MLozano@nationalcityca.gov> Subject: Lifting Ban on Cruising 1 CAUTION: This email originated from outside your organization. Exercise caution when opening attachments or clicking links, especially from unknown senders. Hello sir, SAPD Sgt. Minter gave me your email address. I have been tasked with researching the issue of possibly repealing our existing anti-cruising ordinance at the request of our City Council. Can you please provide answers to the following questions? Does your City have any ordinance(s) banning cruising in any way? If so, is there any push to repeal such ordinance(s)? Do you have any general feedback regarding cruising? COMMUNITY FIRST Richard Shin SERGEANT TRAFFIC DIVISION Santa Ana Police Department 60 Civic Center Plaza, t=i.o. Box 1981, Santa Ana, CA 92701 rshin($santa-ana.orql (714) 245-8294 2 1 ORDINANCE NO. NS-XXXX AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA REPEALING ARTICLE XII OF CHAPTER 36 OF THE SANTA ANA MUNICIPAL CODE TO REMOVE REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO MOTOR VEHICLE CRUISING IN THE CITY WHEREAS, in 1989, the City Council of the City of Santa Ana adopted an ordinance making it a misdemeanor to engage in motor vehicle cruising on city streets; and WHEREAS, the City Council now desires to repeal those provisions related to cruising as set forth in Article XII of Chapter 36 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code; THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA ANA DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. Article XII of Chapter 36 of the Santa Ana Municipal Code is hereby repealed in its entirety. Section 2. The City Council finds that this ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act under California Code of regulations, Title 14, Section 15060, subdivision (c)(2), because the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable indirect physical change in the environment nor under subdivision (c)(3) because the activity has no potential for resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly and so is not a project. Section 3. If any section, subsection, phrase, or clause of this ordinance is for any reason held to be unconstitutional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this ordinance and each section, subsection, phrase or clause thereof irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, phrases or clauses be declared invalid or unconstitutional. Section 4. The Clerk of the Council shall certify to the adoption of this ordinance and cause the same to be published in the manner prescribed by law. Section 5.This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force thirty (30) days from and after its final passage. ADOPTED this ______ day of ______________, 2022. _______________________ Vicente Sarmiento Mayor 2 APPROVED AS TO FORM: Sonia R. Carvalho City Attorney ________________________ AYES: Councilmembers __________________________________ NOES: Councilmembers __________________________________ ABSTAIN: Councilmembers __________________________________ NOT PRESENT: Councilmembers __________________________________ CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY I, _____________, Acting Clerk of the Council, do hereby attest to and certify that the attached Ordinance No. NS-XXX to be the original ordinance adopted by the City Council of the City of Santa Ana on _______________, 2022 and that said ordinance was published in accordance with the Charter of the City of Santa Ana. Date: ________________ ____________________________________ Acting Clerk of the Council City of Santa Ana