(KRON) — After several previous years in which the Oakland Police Department says illegal sideshows disrupted May Day and Cinco de Mayo celebrations, OPD said it plans to deploy additional resources, including aerial police tracking, from Friday through next Tuesday to prevent dangerous activity.
“Sideshows are among the most common issues,” OPD said in a statement to KRON4 on Thursday. “To address this, the public will see more officers, specialized units and aerial support. These teams will work to deter and respond to criminal activity that threatens public safety.”Oakland police said they will also target illegal parking, mobile vending, unpermitted food vendors and conduct bar inspections.“Our message is clear: Illegal sideshows will not be tolerated,” police added.Authorities warned that anyone taking part in street takeovers or reckless driving will be cited or arrested, and suspected sideshow vehicles will be impounded for 30 days.OPD said it has towed more than 150 vehicles, handed out 80 citations and made numerous arrests tied to sideshows during the last three Cinco de Mayo enforcement periods…