- Podcasts
Podcasts - Videos
Videos - Policy Issues
Policy Issues - About
About
Rep Donovan Tries to Stop Street Takeovers
One of Milwaukee County’s state lawmakers says it’s now or never for a proposed law that would help police in the city fight “street takeovers.”
Rep. Bob Donovan, R-Greenfield, on Tuesday pressed state senators to take-up his plan, Assembly Bill 78, that would give Milwaukee Police another tool to break-up takeovers.
“Time is of the essence,” Donovan said. “Summer is on our doorstep and these street takeovers will only continue to increase in number throughout the summer. MPD needs this legislation to immediately take action against these reckless drivers.”
Milwaukee Police say “street takeovers” are gatherings where hundreds of young people block-off a street or an intersection, and both party and drive their cars recklessly. The takeovers are organized on social media, and police say they are difficult to stop beforehand.
Donovan’s legislation would allow Milwaukee Police, and other police departments across the state, to tow and impound any and all cars involved in a “street takeover.”
The Assembly approved the plan back in March. It passed on a 53-44 vote, and was sent to the Senate. It has sat there ever since.
“I am personally urging the State Senate to no longer delay. With each day that passes, we are losing the opportunity to give Milwaukee enhanced options to tackle reckless driving and the chaos that continues to plague the city,” Donovan added.
Donovan is not the only one working on a plan to stop takeovers this summer.
Milwaukee’s mayor is pushing for a city ordinance that would allow for $500 fines, but that has been slow moving as well.
Milwaukee Police reported their first “street takeover” of the summer over the weekend. Hundreds of people flooded an intersection on the city’s south side Sunday night.
Milwaukee Police did not make any arrests, and there are no reports of any injuries.
Interested in the content of this Article?
Reach out to the MacIver Institute to aquire more information
