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Police thwart pair of illegal street takeovers in both Nassau and Suffolk counties

This comes after police in both counties vowed to crack down on these incidents, which have become more common and dangerous in recent months.

Jonathan Gordon

Nov 18, 2024, 12:45 PM

Updated 3 days ago

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Police in both Nassau and Suffolk counties said they shut down a pair of illegal street takeovers before they got out of control over the weekend.
In Uniondale, police responded to 711 Stewart Ave. around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16, for what they called a large-scale illegal vehicle rally.
Police issued 31 summonses, impounded two vehicles and made one arrest.
Daniel Tiburcio, 25, of Wantagh was charged with criminal possession of a forged instrument and other tickets.
"These illegal street takeovers are dangerous to the public and we have zero tolerance for them in Nassau County,” Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said. “If you take part in this unlawful activity you can expect a robust police response. You will ticketed or arrested and we will seize your car. In addition, we are in communication with our partners in the NYPD and Suffolk County Police: there will be no safe haven.”
That same night at around 10:15 p.m., the Suffolk County Police Street Takeover Task Force responded to the Ronkonkoma Train Station where over 40 cars had gathered, according to officials.
Police said they blocked off the parking lot exits after discovering a pair of pickup trucks doing donuts around other cars and bystanders.
Police issued a handful of tickets, impounded two cars and made an arrest.
Michael Watson, 19, of Ronkonkoma was cited for several infractions and Jason Marino, 24, of Medford was charged with aggravated unlicensed operation in the first degree under Angelica’s Law for driving with 35 suspensions on nine dates.
This comes weeks after Suffolk County police launched a task force to target this issue.
Officials said these takeovers are illegal and dangerous for those involved, prevent first responders from doing their jobs and hurt the local quality of life.