Sweetwater Police Arrest Fugitive Metroplex Street Racing Gang Leader

SWEETWATER, TX – The alleged ringleader of a gang of drivers who took over the streets of Grapevine New Year's Eve has been arrested in Sweetwater.  

According to the Grapevine Police Department, 22-year-old Juan Carlos Rodriguez is charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, a state jail felony.

A warrant for his arrest was issued on February 9, 2023. Rodriguez was arrested by Sweetwater Police on Tuesday, February 21, 2023.

Just after 11pm on Saturday, December 31, 2022 Grapevine dispatchers received 9-1-1 calls about vehicles revving engines, squealing tires and driving dangerously in the intersection of Main Street and Dallas Road. Officers responded immediately to the area and tried to pursue involved parties. Due to the large crowd and several pedestrians in the roadway, the suspects got away.

Officers were able to collect vehicle and license plate information, and videos from the crime were later posted on social media. Detectives launched an investigation through this evidence, and with assistance from Dallas Police, were able to identify Rodriguez as the organizer.

The Grapevine Police Department thanks Sweetwater Police and Dallas Police for their assistance in the identification and apprehension of Juan Rodriguez. He is jailed in Nolan County and faces 180 days to two years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines if convicted.

The dangerous driving investigation remains open as detectives work to identify more of the involved parties. Anyone who has information on suspects, or additional photos and videos, can submit them to: [email protected].