Street Racing Crackdown: Nine Arrested In Orange County
Law enforcement authorities in Central Florida are taking more stringent enforcement action against street racing. According to a report from Click Orlando, nine people were recently arrested in Orange County as part of a comprehensive anti-street racing operation—and local law enforcement warned that more arrests will be coming in the future. Here, our Orlando criminal defense lawyer provides an overview of the allegations raised in the case as well as street racing charges more broadly.
Orange County Sheriff’s Office is Cracking Down on Illegal Street Racing
Nine men—mostly in their late teens and early twenties—were arrested by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for street racing and a so-called “intersection takeover.” During an intersection takeover, drivers will often block off an intersection or a section of road and perform dangerous maneuvers such as burnouts, donuts, and drifting. In this case, the men were reportedly observed doing burnouts and donuts in and around the parking lot of a local store. The group is facing a number of different charges—from moving violations to criminal reckless driving.
Florida has an Anti-Street Racing Statute
Unlike many other jurisdictions, Florida has a dedicated criminal statute for street racing. Under Florida Statutes § 316.191, street racing is defined as an “event” when one or more motor vehicles compete with each other as a response to a challenge to demonstrate the vehicle or driver’s superiority. The competition can be formal or informal, and there is no need for any reward or prize.
Know the Charge: A First Degree Misdemeanor in Florida (Jail Time Possible)
A conviction for street racing carries serious criminal penalties in Florida. It is a first degree misdemeanor charge. Despite not being classified as a felony, it is a serious offense and should never be taken lightly. If convicted for street racing under Florida Statutes § 316.191, you may face:
- A $1,000 fine (first offense) or $3,000 fine (second offense);
- The loss of driving privileges for at least 365 days;
- Impoundment of your car at cost for up to 30 days; and
- A maximum of one year in prison
If a driver caused a crash during a highway street race that injures any other party, the criminal penalties can be far more severe. An offender who causes a serious accident during a street race could face a felony charge that carries significant prison time. No matter the situation that you find yourself in, an experienced Orlando, FL criminal defense lawyer can help.
Contact Our Orlando, FL Reckless Driving & Street Racing Attorney Today
At The Baez Law Firm, we are aggressive, reliable advocates for justice. Arrested for street racing or any related offense? We can help. Contact us right away to arrange your confidential consultation with a top attorney. From our Orlando law office, our team defends these charges in Orange County and throughout the wider region. You do not have to take on the criminal justice process alone. Our attorney is here to provide the best legal representation.
Source:
clickorlando.com/news/local/2023/04/17/and-they-wont-be-the-last-orange-county-deputies-arrest-9-in-street-racing-crackdown/
