PIKESVILLE, Md. — Law enforcement in Maryland has increased actions against illegal car rallies known as “takeovers,” where drivers perform dangerous stunts on public roads, often blocking traffic and endangering the community. Following the establishment of the Maryland Car Rally Task Force in June 2024, numerous individuals have been charged for participating in these disruptive events.
The task force, formed in response to mounting concerns over these large-scale exhibitions, has made significant progress in addressing and curbing the occurrence of such gatherings throughout the state. These activities not only lead to major traffic disruptions but also pose serious risks of property damage and public safety hazards.
In July, the task force targeted three major events in Prince George’s County, including areas in Laurel, Greenbelt, Beltsville, and Upper Marlboro. The operations led to the issuance of criminal summonses and arrest warrants against six individuals implicated in organizing and carrying out these unlawful gatherings.
Among those charged were Terrel Marshall of Suitland, Alex Agustin of Laurel, Kyle Allen of Lanham, Jarard Walters of Essex, Malik Coleman of Baltimore, and London Flores of Silver Spring. These charges are part of a broader strategy to dismantle networks involved in illegal street exhibitions, which have seen increased participation over recent months.
The task force is a collaborative effort involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Maryland Department of State Police, the Maryland Transportation Authority Police, and local police departments from several counties such as Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s. This coordinated approach ensures a comprehensive response to the threat posed by such events, relying on both targeted enforcement in known hotspots and investigative measures aimed at apprehending and prosecuting offenders.
Officials have added patrols and are conducting ongoing investigations to identify other participants in these rallies. The proactive measures include traffic enforcement boosts and the initiation of legal proceedings against those suspected of organizing or engaging in takeover events.
The inter-agency group remains committed to eliminating the public disturbances caused by such car rallies. It highlights the government’s dedication to ensuring public safety and maintaining order on the streets, promising a safer environment for Maryland’s residents through continued vigilance and enforcement.
As the task force continues its work, the effects of its interventions are already being noted by the community, with a marked reduction in reported incidents and a positive public response to the increased law enforcement presence at previously targeted locations. This initiative not only addresses immediate dangers but also works toward a long-term solution against the recurring trend of hazardous and unauthorized car rallies.