Texas Governor Greg Abbott is putting together a task force to find ways to combat the rise in dangerous and illegal street takeovers happening across the state.
Illegal street racers recently took over multiple intersections in Austin, with crowds of pople throwing rocks and fireworks at police when they responded to the scene. One officer was injured in that incident.
But other cities including Fort Worth, Houston,and San Antonio have faced the problem as well, even going back years.
Governor Abbott's new task force will include Texas DPS, State Highway Patrol, Aviation Operations Division, and the Intelligence and Counterterrorism Division, all working alongside local law enforcement.
The task force will focus on state-level investigations that target the organized crime aspect of the street takeovers with the goal of making arrests and seizing vehicles or weapons.
In many cases, those participating in street takeovers will face felony charges and possible prison time.
Related
Related
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news