State Sen. Paul Cicarella, member of the Judiciary Committee, today applauded the Senate’s passage of his bipartisan co-sponsored bill (S.B. 1284) to prevent additional violent street takeovers in Connecticut.
“Thank you to my Senate colleagues for passing this bill that holds individuals accountable for endangering others on our roads. Consequences are the best deterrent, and this is something we’ve lacked for years. I continue to hear from my constituents and understand their frustrations and concerns about these increasingly dangerous activities.
“Until criminals know they will face significant consequences, street takeover events will continue. I also appreciate the input of local law enforcement leaders like North Haven Police Chief Kevin Glenn, New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson, and First Selectman Mike Freda, who helped shape this bill. I urge my House colleagues to advance it to the governor’s desk,” said Sen. Cicarella.
S.B. 1284 would empower towns and cities to impose larger fines on those involved in street takeovers, with added penalties, including license suspension for participants. It also provides towns with the ability to seize the vehicles involved and either auction them off or destroy them.
The bill now moves to the House for final action before the 2025 legislative session concludes on June 4.
Sen. Cicarella has offered similar bills in previous legislative sessions in response to street takeover events that have threatened public safety. He has closely worked with state and local leaders in crafting this legislation, which has garnered overwhelming community support.