CHARLOTTE — A state law that cracks down on street takeovers has helped the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department curb the dangerous trend that has plagued the streets.
The new law criminalized the gatherings and CMPD’s Transportation Division increased enforcement to make Charlotte streets safer.
CMPD released data on Thursday from 2024 that showed:
- Pop-up takeovers were down 88%
- Pre-arranged events declined 71%
- Street takeover vehicle seizures increased 29%
Drivers can be charged with a misdemeanor and a fine of more than $1,000, and there are stricter penalties for repeat offenders.
“The legislation around street racing and street takeovers has significantly impacted what we’re seeing in Charlotte,” said CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings Thursday.
He credits the law that went into effect in late 2023 for bringing down the number of street takeovers.
“I have to commend our legislators who have passed these laws to make our jobs a lot easier in combating these crimes,” Jennings said.
Alex Pechany said the takeovers are a dangerous trend in Charlotte.
“It messes up other people’s schedules,” said Pechany. “People have to sit there and wait or maybe they get hit. It’s just dangerous and it’s bad.”
Pechany hopes safer roads become a new trend nationwide.
“I would hope that whatever is making the takeovers decrease in Charlotte will be applied to the rest of the country,” Pechany said.
Under the new law, police can also take vehicles involved in street stunts.
CMPD said it seized 22 cars in 2024, which is a nearly 30% increase from the year before.
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