INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — City leaders on Monday said going after vehicles used in street takeovers will go a long way toward fixing the problem.

The City-County Council on Monday night will introduce a measure that would prohibit taking any part in an illegal street racing event, including reckless driving exhibitions or motorcycle stunts. WISHTV.com first reported on the proposal on Friday.

Participants, including organizers and promoters, would face a $250 fine while spectators would be fined $100. In addition, any vehicle seized in connection with such an event would be impounded for at least 30 days.

Councilor Leroy Robinson, who chairs the council’s public safety and criminal justice committee, said Monday that the proposed ordinance’s impoundment provisions are its most important feature. “We believe if we take their cars from them and impede their way of life, getting to work, going to school, driving their families around, that will help them change their minds.”

The measure comes a little more than a week after people held illegal street takeovers and spinning events all across the city. Participants attacked officers when they arrived to break up the events.

On Monday, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department announced officers had arrested at least seven people, towed at least four vehicles, and seized two firearms in connection with those street takeovers.

Robinson says the attacks on law enforcement at street takeovers a week ago illustrate the need for city officials to step in. He said at least 10 councilors representing both parties have reported

“The video last week kind of sped things up and said we’ve got to do something now,” he said.

Robinson says he plans to bring the proposal up for a public hearing before his committee at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday. The council meetings can be watched live online.

If the proposal passes, the measure would go before the council at its Oct. 7 meeting.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE

• Democrats propose new fines, impounds for street takeovers
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• IMPD adds to arrest tally for spinning, street takeovers
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• Louisville seizing cars used in street racing and spinning, will Indy follow?

News release

“Indianapolis – On Monday, September 23, the Indianapolis City-County Council will introduce a proposal, which aims to address the growing concerns of dangerous street activity through enforcement and penalties. Proposal No. 314, 2024, adds Division 9 – Illegal Street Activity to the Revised Code of the Consolidated City and County under Chapter 441, Article III. The proposal defines illegal street racing and reckless driving exhibitions, establishes clear penalties for those involved, and empowers law enforcement to act against these unsafe activities. 

“‘Illegal street racing and reckless driving pose significant dangers to our neighborhoods, motorists, and pedestrians,’ said Chairman Leroy Robinson. ‘This proposal gives law enforcement the tools they need to address this growing issue. By holding not only drivers but also organizers, promoters, and even spectators accountable, we are sending a clear message that these dangerous activities will not be tolerated in our city.’

“Key Provisions of the Proposal:

“Definitions: The proposal defines key terms, including ‘illegal street racing,’ ‘motorcycle stunting,’ ‘reckless driving exhibition,’ and ‘promoter,’ providing clarity for law enforcement and the community. 

“Additional Penalties: Organizers, promoters, and drivers involved in illegal street racing or reckless driving exhibitions may face fines of up to $250. Spectators may also be fined up to $100. 

“Vehicle Impoundment: Any motor vehicle used in these illegal activities may be impounded for at least 30 days or until the final adjudication of the case, emphasizing the city’s stance on prioritizing public safety and reducing road hazards. 

“Exemptions: Authorized racetracks and designated areas will not be subject to these restrictions, ensuring legal racing and motor events can still take place safely. 

“‘This is the significant step toward ensuring the safety of our streets and the well-being of our community,’ said IMDP Chief Chris Bailey. ‘It will empower our officers to effectively address reckless driving and street-takeover activities that endanger lives and property. I also want to extend my gratitude to the city-county councilors for their support in making this possible,’ he added.  

“The ordinance also provides detailed guidelines for proving violations, including the use of circumstantial evidence such as the time of day, location, and the number of people and vehicles involved in the incident. The co-sponsors of this proposal are President Vop Osili, Public Safety and Criminal Justice Committee Chair Leroy Robinson, Co-Chair Crista Carlino, and Councilors Dan Boots, Brienne Delaney, Jared Evans, Rena Allen, John Barth, Brienne Delaney, Andy Nielsen, Keith Graves, Nick Roberts, and Ron Gibson.   

“Proposal No. 314 will be heard in the upcoming Public Safety and Criminal Justice Committee on Wednesday, September 25 at 5:30 p.m. in the Public Assembly Room.”

Sara Hindi, chief communications officer, Indianapolis City-County Council

Statement

“We all have a role to play to keep our streets and neighborhoods safe – but the women and men of IMPD are on the frontlines every day, putting their safety on the line to protect all of ours. The violence we have seen over recent weekends toward these public servants is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“I’m proud to support City-County Council Proposal 314, which gives officers more tools to hold those participating in dangerous ‘street takeovers’ accountable and helps make Indianapolis a safer city for all. I urge the City-County Council to swiftly send this proposal to my desk for signature and continue to support our public safety officers.”

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett (D), in email sent at 9:12 p.m. Sept. 23, 2024