Birmingham City Council Issues Warning against Exhibition Driving
In an effort to discourage dangerous automotive activities, Birmingham City Council declared on Tuesday strict measures against not only those engaging in exhibition driving, but also the spectators who show up to observe. According to amendments made to the City Code, spectators found at exhibition driving or street racing scenes may face penalties up to a $500 fine and/or 180 days in jail.
Cracking Down on Dangerous Driving Activities
Exhibition driving includes activities such as burnouts, donuts, and general stunt driving, often occurring on public roads and jeopardizing the safety of local residents. “We have seen a lot of people participate in this who aren’t the ones driving,” said Councilor LaTonya Tate, chair of the Public Safety Committee. She explained that the purpose of these amendments is to discourage people from being part of these perilous events, even as passive onlookers who engage in live-streaming and recording videos.
Supporting Law Enforcement with Legislative Changes
These changes are seen by Councilor Hunter Williams as a needed tool to aid law enforcement officers in curtailing such activities on public streets. He noted, “Enforcement of these changes will fall under the discretion of our officers.” He also mentioned the effectiveness of the Mayor’s Operation Knight Rider in tackling this issue, with a hope that these new measures will add to its efficacy and prevent public gatherings at such events.
Notable Results from the Operation Knight Rider Initiative
From its start till May 12, Operation Knight Rider has resulted in 34 arrests, with three cases being forwarded to the Northern District of Alabama U.S. Attorney’s Office for federal prosecution. Under this initiative, since April 12, there have been 45 felony charges, 32 misdemeanor charges, 10 exhibition driving-related charges, and nine charges of evading police, as reported earlier this month.
Officers have also recovered nine stolen vehicles and impounded a total of 25 vehicles. Moreover, this operation has resulted in the seizure of 22 weapons, including a rifle and 22 handguns, three of which were equipped with machine gun conversion devices (“switches”). They also confiscated 4.1 pounds of marijuana, 39 grams of cocaine, 228 grams of methamphetamine, and $11,723 in suspected drug proceeds.
Incorporating Modern Technology for Law Enforcement
The city council’s decision comes on the heels of changes approved by the Alabama Legislature that allow tillage of video, live streams, and photos in the investigation and prosecution of individuals involved in exhibition driving. This change came as a significant leap since, prior the amendment, Birmingham police officers had to witness the act in person to effect an arrest.
Stringent Penalties for Serious Offences
The updated legislation now states that exhibition driving causing serious injury can result in a Class C felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Incidents leading to death may result in a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. Vehicles involved in exhibition driving are also subject to seizure and impoundment.
Note to the public
The Birmingham City Council encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any instances of exhibition driving to help maintain the safety of the community.
