Crenshaw Cruiser Task Force

What:
Crenshaw Cruiser Task Force

When:
Saturday, May 6, 2006, 11:30 p.m. to Sunday, May 7, 2006, 3:00 a.m.

Where:
Crenshaw Boulevard, between Adams Boulevard and Florence Avenue

Who:
Lieutenant Whittingham, Incident Commander
Officers from Operations-South Bureau
California Highway Patrol
California State Parole
Los Angeles County Probation
Department of Transportation

Why:
The purpose of the task force is to enforce all laws, to apprehend violators and ensure public safety.  The enforcement efforts will be directed at all individuals involved in the cruising, whether they are active participants or spectators.

While cruising along Crenshaw Boulevard has been an accepted recreational activity in the past, in recent times Crenshaw cruising has been dominated by gang violence and other illegal activities.  On April 1, 2006, gang members fired multiple gunshots at each other, resulting in the injury of at least one victim.  Officers responding to calls for service in that area have been blocked and surrounded by the cruisers, prohibiting them to conduct official police business, and on April 30, 2006, gunfire erupted again, resulting in the injury of three victims, one of whom was a 15 year old.

In an attempt to discourage future participation in cruising on Crenshaw Boulevard, the Task Force will also issue a flyer to individuals who are contacted by the police, warning them of the consequences of violating any State, Federal, or Municipal Codes while engaging in cruising along Crenshaw Boulevard.