SCPD: Middle Island man arrested for engaging in illegal street contest
The village is taking legislative action to further strengthen public safety with a public hearing to be held on Sept. 24 at Village Hall.
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Port Jefferson is the latest community dealing with illegal street takeovers that cause chaos in quiet neighborhoods.
Christian Neubert, a native of the village, said the noise wakes up his children.
“It’s also a deterrent for people trying to come here to spend a nice evening and it makes us feel a little unsafe for our children being out and about with reckless driving,” added Neubert.
After an investigation by the Sixth Precinct Investigative Unit and the Street Takeover Task Force, 20-year-old Adam Tuzza, of Middle Island, has been arrested, according to police.
This comes after two vehicles were seen doing donuts and burnouts on the night of Aug. 26 at West Broadway and Main Street, before speeding away.
Local businesses hope the arrest helps put the brakes on reckless driving in the future.
"It proves a point to people that they can’t just go and do whatever they like to do. It can hurt people, and it can hurt the community they are doing it in," said Taylor Tuhy, stylist and sales associate at Ivory Main Curvy Corner Boutique.
“We have village code enforcers. They either give tickets or they drive to make sure no one is doing anything dangerous," said Reese Deboer, a server at Castaways Steak & Seafood.
Tuzza was charged with unlawful speed contest/side show and reckless endangerment.
His vehicle was seized, and he will be arraigned at a later date.
In a statement, Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow said in part:
“This decisive action demonstrates ongoing efforts to protect the vibrancy and safety of our Village. Ensuring that families, businesses, and visitors all feel secure and supported.”
The mayor also stated that the village is taking legislative action to further strengthen public safety.
A public hearing will be held on Sept. 24 at 6 p.m. at Village Hall to discuss provisions and penalties.
