By Bob Katzen

The Judiciary Committee’s hearing also included a measure that supporters say will protect the public from street takeovers by giving cities and towns the necessary tools to combat the Street Takeover Public Safety Crisis.

The bill would prohibit the reckless or negligent operation of a group of two or more vehicles in a public place or at a business or commercial property in a way that hinders the movement of other vehicles. Violators would be subject to up to a 2.5-year prison sentence and a fine of up to $2,000. The measure also imposes up to a 1-year prison sentence and/or up to a $500 fine on anyone who is convicted of disorderly conduct or disturbing the peace while wearing a mask.

Another provision would sharply distinguish street takeovers from traditional reckless operation of a vehicle; allow for the forfeiture of vehicles utilized in street takeovers; and provides municipalities with the funds received from the sale of the forfeited vehicles.

Supporters said they filed the bill in response to the rash of dangerous street takeover events across the state, resulting in several arrests, injuries and damaged property including a Boston Police vehicle which was burned while officers were responding to a recent street takeover incident.

Sponsor Rep. Christopher Markey (D-Dartmouth) said he is deeply concerned by the danger that recent street takeover incidents represent to public safety. “We have already seen multiple instances where property was damaged, law enforcement was assaulted and bystanders were injured,” said Markey. “This legislation takes an important step by giving law enforcement and municipalities the necessary tools to combat the crisis.”