Home / Crime and Justice / LA Deputies Bust Nitrous Oxide Ring Near Street Takeover
LA Deputies Bust Nitrous Oxide Ring Near Street Takeover
13 Oct
Summary
- 10 arrested for illegal nitrous oxide sales and possession.
- Deputies interrupted open nitrous oxide use and alcohol consumption.
- Nitrous oxide linked to street takeovers, causing injuries.
On October 10, Los Angeles County deputies apprehended 10 people involved in the illicit sale and possession of nitrous oxide at a gas station in Bellflower. The arrests occurred near McNab Avenue and Rosecrans Avenue, where deputies initially responded to a potential street takeover. Instead, they discovered a large gathering openly consuming nitrous oxide and alcohol in the parking lot.
The gas station clerk was observed selling nitrous oxide to the group. Upon dispersing the crowd, deputies found numerous balloons and nitrous oxide tanks scattered throughout the area. Nitrous oxide, known recreationally as whippets, is often associated with illegal street takeovers, where it is huffed by participants and spectators.
This situation underscores recent concerns about the substance's misuse. Just the prior week in Lynwood, a driver ingesting nitrous oxide caused a crash that injured a passenger, leading to a felony DUI arrest. In response to such issues, Orange County enacted an ordinance last year banning nitrous oxide sales in its unincorporated regions.
