Montgomery Co. Proactive Safety Operation

**Multi-Agency Crackdown Nets Dozens of Arrests During Lone Star Throwdown Weekend**

**CONROE, TX – March 4, 2024** – A significant multi-agency law enforcement operation coinciding with the popular Lone Star Throwdown truck show last weekend resulted in dozens of arrests, hundreds of citations, and over 100 vehicle impoundments across Montgomery County. The coordinated effort, led by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, aimed to proactively deter criminal behavior and ensure public safety amidst the influx of visitors.

From Friday, February 23rd, through Sunday, February 25th, authorities made 59 arrests for charges ranging from serious traffic offenses to more substantial misdemeanors and felonies. In addition to the arrests, law enforcement officers issued over 100 citations and impounded more than 100 vehicles. Primary targets included reckless driving, illegal vehicle modifications contributing to unsafe conditions, street racing, driving while intoxicated, and other traffic-related violations.

The operation involved a robust coalition of agencies, including the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constables, and local police departments from Shenandoah, Oak Ridge North, and Willis. While the main event, the Lone Star Throwdown, took place at the Lone Star Convention & Expo Center in Conroe, enforcement actions were expanded throughout Montgomery County, including areas like The Woodlands, which historically experience increased traffic and gatherings associated with the annual show.

Sheriff Rand Henderson emphasized the necessity of the high-visibility presence, citing a history of dangerous activities linked to the event in previous years. “Our objective was clear: to protect our community and ensure everyone’s safety,” Sheriff Henderson stated. “In past years, we’ve unfortunately seen illegal street takeovers, excessive noise, drag racing, and dangerous driving conditions that posed significant risks to both participants and innocent residents. This year, we adopted a proactive stance to prevent such occurrences and maintain order.”

The Lone Star Throwdown, an annual custom truck and car show, draws tens of thousands of enthusiasts and their uniquely modified vehicles to Montgomery County each year. While largely a peaceful gathering, the sheer volume of attendees and vehicles has historically led to a spike in traffic violations and disruptive behavior on county roads and highways outside the convention center. Previous incidents, particularly in 2022 and 2023, prompted widespread community complaints regarding reckless driving, property damage, and public endangerment.

DPS troopers focused on state highways and major thoroughfares, addressing high-speed violations and dangerous maneuvers, while local police departments maintained order within their city limits, responding to noise complaints and traffic disruptions. Constable Precinct 1 deputies provided additional support across county roads and within unincorporated areas.

“This collaborative effort sends a strong message that dangerous and unlawful behavior will not be tolerated in Montgomery County,” Sheriff Henderson added. “We appreciate the cooperation of all participating agencies and the understanding of our law-abiding citizens. Our commitment to maintaining public safety remains paramount, especially during large-scale events that bring a significant number of visitors to our area.”

Authorities confirmed that the comprehensive enforcement strategy successfully mitigated the typical disruptions seen in previous years, resulting in a safer weekend for both residents and visitors attending the show. Local law enforcement agencies plan to review the operation’s success as a potential template for managing future large-scale events in the county.