Illegal street takeovers, reckless ATV riding, and dirt bike activity are not just nuisances. They can create dangerous conditions for drivers, pedestrians, neighborhoods, and law enforcement.
State Representative Kaitlyn Shake supported legislation during the 2026 legislative session aimed at giving communities like Stratford additional tools to respond.
Shake co-sponsored Senate Bill 1284, legislation addressing the illegal use of certain vehicles and street takeovers.
The measure gives municipalities greater authority to address illegal ATVs, dirt bikes, mini motorcycles, and vehicles involved in street takeovers.
Among its provisions, the legislation allows municipalities to seize and, under certain circumstances, destroy illegal ATVs, dirt bikes, and mini motorcycles. It also gives municipalities tools to fine offenders and impound vehicles used in street takeovers and establishes stronger consequences for repeat offenses involving illegal racing and takeovers.
Shake specifically pointed to the impact these incidents have had in Stratford when discussing her support for the legislation.
Public safety requires giving police effective tools while also recognizing the danger that high-speed pursuits can pose to officers, other drivers, pedestrians, and bystanders.
Rather than relying solely on pursuits after dangerous behavior begins, the legislation gives municipalities additional ways to hold offenders accountable and deter repeat activity.
For Stratford residents who have experienced reckless vehicles or disruptive street activity in their neighborhoods, these are not abstract issues debated in Hartford. They affect people’s ability to feel safe on their own streets.
The Stratford Democratic Town Committee thanks Representative Shake for bringing Stratford’s concerns to the State Capitol and supporting practical tools to help local communities address dangerous behavior.
Everyone deserves to feel safe traveling through and living in their neighborhood.