Suffolk officials announce new legislation targeting illegal street takeovers
In video from November you can see tire marks left in the pavement from people doing donuts. This has been happening in both Nassau and Suffolk counties.
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New legislation targeting illegal street takeovers in Suffolk County was announced on Tuesday.
Suffolk County legislators voted to strengthen the laws related to those participating in illegal street takeovers.
It’s not just drivers - it includes spectators, too.
“We’ll now have the authority to prosecute those who gather and to watch and promote these illegal activities and we will forfeit their cars as well,” said Chief Assistant District Attorney Allen Bode. “If you participate, you’re complicit and you will face legal consequences.”
Penalties could include a fine and some time behind bars. Police say people have been getting hurt, including spectators and a police officer who was dragged by a car during an illegal street takeover in Islip.
“The goal here is not punishment. The goal here is prevention,” said Bode.
Suffolk County Ed Romaine is in favor of the legislation.
“I think it’s about time. When people have to be fearful about where they live, then there’s a problem," said Barbara Caltagirone, of Farmingville.
