San Francisco Sun

The Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved legislation proposed by Mayor London N. Breed and Supervisor Matt Dorsey to combat sideshows and reckless driving in San Francisco. The new laws aim to increase criminal penalties for individuals who plan, participate in, or facilitate these activities.

Mayor Breed announced the legislation in August at the San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) Headquarters alongside regional law enforcement leaders. Sideshows, characterized by dangerous automobile stunts, are a widespread issue across the Bay Area, necessitating regional coordination to prevent them.

"Sideshows are dangerous, disruptive, and illegal," said Mayor London Breed. "In San Francisco, we are working to meet this challenge by adding new technology and expanding on our enforcement strategies; changing our laws will allow us to both hold those planning or participating in sideshows accountable and send a message that there will be consequences when they come to San Francisco."

Supervisor Matt Dorsey echoed this sentiment: "With the passage of this legislation, we are making it clear that illegal sideshows will not be tolerated in San Francisco. I'm thankful to my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors for supporting this crucial piece of legislation that will make our neighbors safer for drivers and pedestrians alike."

The new laws introduce several criminal penalties:

- Making it illegal to promote or assemble for a sideshow.

- Criminalizing actions that obstruct streets for setting up sideshows.

- Prohibiting interference with law enforcement efforts to disrupt sideshows.

- Extending the impoundment period for vehicles seized during sideshows beyond 30 days if charges are pressed and allowing permanent seizure upon conviction.

All these offenses will be classified as misdemeanors under current state law.

"I want to thank the hard-working members of the San Francisco Police Department who put themselves in harm’s way when responding to these dangerous and unlawful gatherings," said Chief Scott. "This legislation will give our officers additional tools to hold people accountable who engage in sideshows. Thank you to Mayor London Breed and the Board of Supervisors for passing this legislation."

Sideshows have been an ongoing issue in 2024, with 15 incidents documented by SFPD compared to 72 reported cases during their peak in 2021. Law enforcement agencies across the region have employed various strategies such as drones and license plate readers to track participants.

The public is encouraged to call 911 if they witness a sideshow and share any photos or videos with police for investigative purposes.

The legislation is set for a second vote by the Board of Supervisors on October 1, 2024.