Oklahoma authorities seized guns, drugs, and 60 vehicles as they arrested 150 individuals, including 40 minors, during a massive 12-hour street takeover crackdown that left some protestors claiming it was just a birthday party.

Key Takeaways

• Oklahoma City Police arrested over 150 individuals, including 40 juveniles, during a massive street racing crackdown operation near SE 66th and I-35
• Authorities seized multiple firearms, drugs, and impounded over 60 vehicles during the 12-hour operation
• 90 individuals were charged with unlawful assembly, while others face additional charges with some placed under ICE detainers
• The business owner and attendees claim it was a legitimate birthday celebration, not an illegal street racing event
• Public defenders have raised concerns about constitutional issues and the strain placed on the county jail system

Massive Police Operation Targets Street Racing

In a decisive action against illegal street activities, Oklahoma City Police conducted a sweeping operation that netted over 150 arrests near SE 66th and I-35. The crackdown targeted what authorities described as a “street takeover” – organized illegal racing events that have increasingly plagued American cities. Law enforcement arrived in force at a business called Rocket Wraps, a vehicle-wrapping shop where the alleged illegal gathering was taking place. The operation successfully disrupted what police believe was a significant street racing event that posed dangers to participants and the public alike.

Attendees were shocked by the scale of the police response, with many claiming they were simply attending a birthday celebration. “They showed up with over 40 police cars. Like everything and had drones and everything, and we were all scared, like not knowing what was going on,” said Dante Cornelius, one of those present at the event.

Significant Contraband Seized

The operation yielded substantial evidence of illegal activities, according to police reports. Officers seized multiple firearms and various drugs from attendees during the searches. Additionally, authorities impounded approximately 60 vehicles believed to be connected to the illegal racing activities. The scale of contraband seized demonstrates why President Trump’s administration has consistently emphasized the importance of proactive law enforcement operations targeting criminal gatherings that endanger communities. The arrests have placed significant strain on local detention facilities, highlighting the scope of the problem.

“It’s not uncommon for us to find narcotics at these events or firearms at these events,” said Master Sgt. Dillon Quirk of the Oklahoma City Police Department.

Of the 150 individuals arrested, 90 were charged with unlawful assembly, with others facing additional charges related to illegal speed contests, drug possession, and weapons violations. The arrested group included 40 juveniles, whose presence at such an event raises serious questions about supervision and community safety standards. Some of the detained individuals are now under Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainers, indicating possible immigration violations that will require additional processing and coordination with federal authorities.

Disputed Characterization of the Event

Despite the police characterization of the gathering as a street takeover, the business owner and many attendees have strongly contested this description. Raul Anaya, who organized the event at Rocket Wraps, maintains it was intended as a family-friendly birthday celebration featuring car enthusiasts, food, and socializing. Attendees have expressed shock at the aggressive police response, with some claiming they were simply there to look at vehicles and enjoy the festivities when officers suddenly ordered everyone to the ground.

“As I’m getting that snow cone, they’re like, ‘Everyone get on the ground,” said Matthew Lee, one of the attendees who was arrested during the operation.

The large-scale arrests have sparked concerns about potential racial targeting, with some advocates noting that many of those arrested were Hispanic. Public defenders have voiced criticism about the strain placed on the already burdened county jail system, pointing to processing delays that left worried parents waiting for information about their arrested children. These constitutional concerns highlight the delicate balance between effective law enforcement and respecting civil liberties – a balance that becomes particularly challenging when dealing with large-scale operations.

Law Enforcement Stands Firm

Despite the pushback, Oklahoma City Police defend their actions as necessary to combat dangerous street racing activities that have become increasingly problematic nationwide. Authorities have advised the public to avoid gatherings that could be perceived as street takeovers, noting that such events frequently lead to dangerous driving, property damage, and other criminal activities. The department is coordinating with the Department of Homeland Security regarding the individuals placed under ICE holds, further underscoring the multi-jurisdictional nature of the enforcement action.

This crackdown represents a significant win for law enforcement in their ongoing battle against illegal street racing. With the seizure of dozens of vehicles and the arrest of numerous participants, Oklahoma City has sent a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated. The operation demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated multi-agency responses to emerging public safety threats, though questions about proportionality and civil rights protections will likely continue as the legal process unfolds for those arrested.