For the Reporter
Kent Police conducted three illegal street racing enforcement operations in August and September resulting in 131 contacts, 101 traffic infractions, including one for an intermediate driver’s license violation.
Police also issued 39 equipment violations, 14 for no insurance, two reckless driving arrests and one misdemeanor warrant arrest.
In the weekends following the enforcement activity, officers responded to less 911 calls involving racing in the Kent Valley.
State Farm Insurance provided a $3,750 grant to staff officers on three nights in areas known for racers to congregate.
On any given weekend, during nice weather, it is not uncommon for more than 200 cars to congregate preparing to race, police said.
South King County Police Departments have been working for years to change the environment that racers enjoy and create ordinances making this dangerous behavior illegal.
In Kent, the Stay Out of Areas of Racing (SOAR) ordinance is in effect, which makes it unlawful to be in any SOAR identified area.
“The racer issue will likely not go away in the valley area of South King County.” said Traffic Unit Sgt. Robert Constant. “We will continue to enforce SOAR and work with our police department neighbors to implement effective enforcement strategies aimed at illegal street racing.
“Kent will continue its important work of strictly enforcing traffic laws, keeping our roads safe, and reduce serious injuries and fatalities caused by excessive speed and racing,” Constant said.
City of Kent’s goal is to reach zero serious injuries and fatalities by 2030 as part of the Washington State’s “Target Zero” goal.
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