New legislation targeting illegal street takeovers in Suffolk County is set to be announced this afternoon. It comes after county police formed a task force last month amid a wave of the illegal meetups across Suffolk.
Fast, furious dangerous – police and lawmakers in Suffolk aim to crack down on drivers accused of blocking roads and parking lots to perform stunts.
“These kids like to go out and have fun but at the same time it’s a danger to other people. God forbid somebody gets hurt," said John Guli from Manorville.
Video from November at the Ronkonkoma train station shows tire marks left in the pavement from drivers doing donuts. This has been happening in both Nassau and Suffolk counties.
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.
In response to these dangerous gatherings, Suffolk police created a new task force last month. Officials say they have broken up numerous activities, issued hundreds of summonses and impounded multiple vehicles.
People News 12 spoke with say new legislation cracking down on street takeovers is needed.
“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.
The details about the bill are expected to be announced at a press conference Tuesday afternoon in Hauppauge.