CLEVELAND — Cleveland’s City Council is moving forward with stricter legislation aimed at curbing street takeovers, as the safety committee has approved a measure to enhance the street racing ordinance. This new legislation will specifically classify stunt driving and street takeovers as prohibited activities.
Under the proposed changes, Cleveland would have the authority to confiscate customized car parts linked to these illegal activities—akin to regulations already enforced in Columbus. Items targeted for seizure include steering wheels, wheels, tires, mufflers, and any vehicle components modified for use in street takeovers or racing.
Cleveland Law Director Mark Griffin underscored the necessity of this measure, noting that it not only expands the definitions of prohibited actions but also allows for the confiscation of key vehicle components that can render the vehicles inoperable. He emphasized the need for creative solutions in adapting to evolving criminal methods.
Recent events in Cleveland highlighted the urgency for such measures. A series of citywide takeovers in late September caused significant disruptions, including an incident that temporarily closed I-90 and resulted in assaults on police officers and property damage. In response, local law enforcement has made ten felony arrests and seized multiple weapons and vehicles linked to these criminal gatherings.
In the wake of these incidents, police have established a dedicated task force to investigate street takeovers, and since September 28, the city has not experienced any new takeovers, though car meets continue to occur in parking lots.
The full city council is expected to discuss the proposed legislation in their upcoming meeting on Monday. Councilman Mike Polensek, who chairs the safety committee, expressed a firm stance on the matter, stating, “We’re not playing around, we’re beyond playing at this point.”
This initiative reflects a proactive approach to public safety, providing law enforcement with the necessary tools to combat the rise of illegal street racing and ensure the wellbeing of residents. The upcoming council vote will be a pivotal moment for Cleveland in its fight against such dangerous activities.
In summary, Cleveland is stepping up its efforts to combat street racing and stunt driving through new legislation aimed at better equipping law enforcement with the tools they need to enforce safety measures effectively. This proactive stance could pave the way for safer streets and a more orderly community.