Gascon's soft-on-crime policies embolden dangerous street takeovers

Gascon’s soft-on-crime policies embolden dangerous street takeovers

Posted at h in Gascon Must Go by GasconMustGo

street takeover epidemic

Street takeovers are dangerous and have surged under DA Gascon. His Special Directive 23-02 reduces many vehicle-related crimes to mere infractions, limiting consequences and emboldening these dangerous street takeovers. This soft-on-crime policy puts our communities at risk. As DA, I’ll prioritize public safety and ensure serious charges deter these threats.

Gascon’s soft-on-crime policy includes his approach to Vehicle Code Section 23109(c) – exhibition of speed – where drivers and multiple spectators engage in “sideshows” and literally take over streets and intersections while driving in very dangerous and reckless ways. Property is destroyed, people are hurt, and communities are on edge.

Because Gascon does not allow misdemeanors, the drivers participating in street takeovers do not face more serious consequences like jail, license suspensions, and vehicle impounds.

Already overworked and understaffed, law enforcement officers know they won’t be able to overcome Gascon’s policy of treating this reckless and dangerous conduct as simple traffic infractions.

Drivers and spectators also know about Gascon’s policies – they often flee and resist arrest as mobs of people commonly interfere with law enforcement’s attempt to arrest the perpetrators.

The reckless drivers and those who help impede law enforcement also get another break from Gascon’s Special Directive 20-07 which prohibits the filing of misdemeanor charges for Penal Code section 148(a) – resisting arrest and/or obstructing law enforcement – which could be filed against spectators who block police from intervening.

The results are predictable – throughout the county, reckless drivers continue to take over intersections as dozens cheer them on while thumbing their nose at the law and law-abiding citizens.

An infraction simply operates as a ticket with a small fine with nothing more. If charged as a misdemeanor, jail is an option as is impounding the violator’s car.

There are also programs available, through probationary or even diversionary means, to educate these drivers and to make them aware of the deadly results of their reckless conduct.

These programs could help stop their behavior and perhaps even save lives. Unfortunately, with Gascon’s policies, we cannot get these drivers into these programs with a simple infraction ticket.

When I’m DA, I will always prioritize public safety, and that includes allowing my prosecutors to file charges that deter street takeovers and other dangerous crimes.

Learn more at https://nathanhochman.com

street takeover fire