Chapter 55

2/28/2005 

Ch 55 Bloods & Crips

Gang Warfare                         

Delivered 2 of my company's Mini's to the New York International Auto Show today for a troubleshooting competition. Had to fight off the New York gangbangers (see article below), just another little known hazard in the life of a swap driver. Had to be there before opening to drive them thru the displays before the throngs entered. Gas was above one quarter tank in violation of safety laws. VP on my cell phone was sweating not getting cars in for competition. Got a gas station to siphon off few gallons just in time.  Then some BMW techs made the engines not work to test out the contestants skills later on.

Put the Saturn [Skye] concept sports car in center- it will be in production in a year and a half. Some people think the concepts never make it on the street. Threw in a Shelby GR1, Lexus, and Cobra for good measure. The Maybachs, Maseratis, and Lamborghinis were in abundance. Free to me, of course.

Matt (salesman apprentice) shown on the M42 bus (gotta use the MetroCard) to Grand Central where we caught the North Metro North Railway to New Rochelle. Then bought a new Odyssey and drove home in the monsoon. Saved my company big bucks this way. Bosses to pick up minis in few days.

Mom, Sis & in-laws out for Easter. I wouldn't say it was boring, but nothing like the rumble in NY.

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GANGS SPARK PANIC AT AUTO SHOW

By LARRY CELONA

March 28, 2005 -- Car buffs at The New York International Auto Show scattered in terror last night when a fight between the Crips and Bloods gangs broke out at the Javits Center, law-enforcement sources said.

State Police officers, who patrol the center, quickly slammed on the brakes, arresting three men: Jonathan Coley, 21, Quasean Collins, 19, and Mark Roberts, 17.

They were all charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. Coley and Roberts were also hit with inciting to riot charges.

The brawl erupted at about 6:30 p.m., just before closing time. All three of the arrested men were wearing red — Bloods colors — sources said.

The men were in a group of 80 young people who were twice asked to disperse. After being asked for a third time, the men started pushing the troopers, who then made the arrests.

Nobody was hurt.

An auto show spokesman could not be reached.

A law-enforcement source that said it has become a tradition for gang members to attend the show on Easter.