Increased traffic enforcement efforts try to curb dangerous driving in Tampa, with a particular focus on the Courtney Campbell Causeway over the extended Labor Day weekend. This increased presence resulted in a significant number of traffic stops and citations, highlighting the department’s commitment to public safety.
Over the extended weekend, officers conducted 207 total traffic stops along the Courtney Campbell Causeway, issuing 103 warnings and 106 citations for speeding. Citywide, officers conducted 1,183 traffic stops, issuing 1,012 warnings and 531 citations.
According to Tampa Police, the goal for the weekend operation was to balance education and enforcement. Drivers were reminded of the importance of obeying traffic rules and sharing the road responsibly. However, the department also made it clear that street racing and takeovers are not tolerated in the City of Tampa.
“Our officers, whether in cars, on motorcycles, or in the air, are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our community,” said Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw. “The Labor Day weekend operation is just one example of their everyday commitment to reducing traffic-related incidents and ensuring our roads are safe for everyone.”
In one notable incident, just before 2:00am on September 1st, Tampa Police officers responded to an attempted street takeover event near the Tampa Convention Center. A BMW sedan was observed entering the intersection and performing burnouts and slides before heading southbound on Franklin St. onto Harbour Island. Aviation officers provided ground units with the vehicle’s updated location and direction of travel. The car was stopped, and the driver, 18-year-old Elian Michele, was arrested for Unlawful Racing on a Highway While Engaged in a Coordinated Street Takeover, and two narcotics charges. The BMW was impounded. This remains an active investigation, according to local law enforcement.
“Those who engage in such reckless and dangerous behavior will face the full consequences of the law,” said Chief Bercaw, reiterating the department’s stance on street racing and takeovers. “It should be clear that this type of activity is not tolerated in Tampa. You will be caught, you will be arrested, and your car will be seized.”
The Tampa Police Department reminds the community of the following consequences if they are involved in or spectating dangerous driving like illegal street racing, takeovers, or stunt driving:
• Suspect(s) can be charged with a third-degree felony
• Suspect(s) can be fined up to $4,000
• Vehicles can be seized or impounded
• Suspect(s) can lose their license for two years
• Spectators can be fined
If you see a street takeover or illegal street racing, do not engage. Leave the area and report it immediately by calling 911.
In Hillsborough County, the final results of Operation Summer’s End, a joint-agency enforcement initiative focused on addressing DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and BUI (Boating Under the Influence) offenses in Central Florida were also recently announced.
