San Diego police crack down on illegal street racing and sideshows

The San Diego Police Department and California Highway Patrol conducted a joint operation to crack down on illegal street racing and sideshows across several areas, including Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills, Scripps Ranch, and Tierrasanta. The crackdown began early Saturday morning after investigators used social media to track a group coordinating illegal street takeovers at various intersections.

Two men with significant social media followings were arrested on felony charges. Joshua David Ruiz, 18, was arrested for allegedly driving a rented U-Haul pickup truck during a sideshow in Scripps Ranch, an incident estimated to have caused $5,153 in roadway damage. Ruiz was known to authorities for posting videos of dangerous driving, such as ‘white lining,’ a high-speed maneuver through narrow gaps between vehicles.

Jesus Arias-Ruiz Jr., 27, was also arrested for allegedly driving a BMW M4 during the same event. Authorities stated that Arias-Ruiz has a history of promoting illicit gatherings and allegedly attempted to flee from officers at speeds exceeding 100 mph.