PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Sunday nights have become a popular time for street racers in north Portland. Because of that, and the dangers street racing presents, Portland police created a mission as a part of its vision zero project aimed at preventing it.
On Sunday, that mission yielded immediate results. Portland police said it issued 24 citations, wrote eight warnings and made one arrest. They also said they have radar vans where they estimated another 20 citations will be issued.
Jamee Bird, 25, was arrested after police found a previous warrant for her arrest. She was booked into Multnomah County Jail on felony level possession of heroin, delivery of heroin, possession of meth and delivery of meth.
“In addition to the dangers that are posed by the dangerous behaviors, also other criminal behaviors are associated,” said Sgt. Chris Burley with Portland police.
Portland police said it targeted North Marine Driver and Northeast Airport Way from Kelley Point Park to Portland’s eastern boundary.
Street racing in Portland has resulted in multiple crashes, injuries and deaths in the last three years. Street racing was showcased on Aug. 12 when drivers did donuts on the Fremont Bridge, shutting it down. The Hollywood-like scene was caught on camera.
“Anybody who’s seen the movie ‘The Fast and the Furious’ can watch very early in that movie they’re all blocking the streets and they’re listening to police scanners,” said PPB Sgt. Pete Simpson last month. “Nothing’s really changed.”
Dave Thompson with the Oregon Dept. of Transportation, said this isn’t anything new.
“It’s happened a number of times in the past,” Thompson said.
“Each time we just scratch our heads.”
Portland police said it will continue to monitor Sunday night street racing “as staffing allows.”