A crackdown on sideshows happening on Turlock streets and parking lots in May by the Turlock Police Department had the desired effect of decreasing the activity in town, but as resources were diverted the sideshows have crept back, prompting increased police presence at Monte Vista Crossings.

The Turlock Police Department sent officers out to Monte Vista Crossings Wednesday night after getting several reports about sideshows happening in the parking lot of the shopping center.

On Wednesday night there were approximately 200 vehicles that showed up in the parking lot area in front of Tilly's on Countryside Drive. The police department's traffic unit and additional officers stopped 30 vehicles that night for various reasons, said Turlock Police spokesman Sgt. Michael Parmley.

"Four vehicles were towed and five drivers were arrested for driving without a valid driver license," Parmley said.

Sideshows in Turlock have been an ongoing problem this spring and now summer. The issue hit a point of community frustration in May, when a Turlock Fire Department engine was mobbed during a sideshow takeover at W. Monte Vista and Berkeley avenues.

The incident prompted the police department to conduct crackdowns around town, which resulted in 184 tickets issued, 10 vehicles towed, 15 misdemeanor arrests and 15 vehicles sent to the State Referee. Those vehicles had unlawful emissions modifications that must be checked by the state Bureau of Automotive Repair, according to the police department.

People with information regarding sideshows can contact the Turlock Police Department’s Tip Line at (209) 668-5550 extension 6780 or email at tpdtipline@turlock.ca.us.