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Bill increases penalties, strengthens police enforcement to prevent, deter, and disrupt dangerous street takeovers
The Montgomery County Council approved Bill 27‑26 sponsored by Councilmember Andrew Friedson today to crack down on the increasingly alarming issue of unlawful road racing and street takeovers.
Street takeovers are large, unauthorized gatherings in which participants block public roadways to drag race or perform reckless driving stunts. These incidents have increased across the region, including in many parts of the County, creating significant safety risks for residents, bystanders, and officers.
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“Residents deserve to feel safe on our roads and in their neighborhoods,” said Councilmember Friedson. “I am proud the Council stepped up to pass this bill and meet this public safety need, providing law enforcement with the clarity and authority needed to intervene earlier, disrupt these coordinated events, and keep people out of harm’s way. We must ensure MCPD has strong, modern tools to address this growing threat which endangers everyone involved – drivers, spectators, neighbors, and police officers.”
Under the legislation, MCPD receives expanded civil enforcement tools and a clear definition of conduct related to the organization or facilitation of street takeovers. The measure also imposes additional penalties and authorizes timely law enforcement intervention.
“Street takeovers have, unfortunately, involved stolen vehicles, assaults, and property damage. This legislation takes action before a greater tragedy is realized in our community. We appreciate having additional tools at our disposal to help make our communities and roadways safe,” said Acting Police Chief Darren Francke.
The legislation bans coordinating, promoting, or knowingly facilitating a takeover event and establishes a civil framework that reinforces existing state traffic and criminal laws, ensuring consistent enforcement across the County.
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Read the original article at mccouncil
