Nine arrested after Sealy event leads to onslaught of street racing

Video: racing video

The Harris County Sheriff's Office arrested nine people in a targeted campaign to catch illegal street racers after a weekend racing event in Austin County.

Deputies said TX2K is among the largest drag-racing events in the country and the weekend of the race has long been a magnet for street racers who gather in nearby parking lots to organize before heading out on the roads.

"We knew they were out there and we went after them," said HCSO spokeswoman Christina Garza.

Garza said teams of deputies were sent out to roadways in west Harris County off I-10.

"These deputies were specifically looking for street racers. We get alot of complaints," Garza said. "They congregate in shopping centers and strip malls. It's a big problem."

Over the three-day operation, nine were arrested on misdemeanor charges of street racing and face a maximum fine of $2,000 plus 180 days in jail.

Repeat offenders can be charged with a second degree felony, which could result in up to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Matthew Armour was one of nine men arrested and accused of street racing in Harris County this weekend. Matthew Armour was one of nine men arrested and accused of street racing in Harris County this weekend. Image 1 of / 14 Caption Close Nine arrested after Sealy event leads to onslaught of street racing 1 / 14 Back to Gallery

TX2K is in its 15th year and has become a five-day showcase of fast cars, according to its website. Drag races are held at Lonestar Motorsports Park in Sealy.

The nine arrested were: