Philadelphia Police Impounds Charger For Street Takeover Shenanigans

Illegal street takeovers have become a growing concern in United States, with authorities warning of their potential to turn deadly. These events, characterized by coordinated “flash mobs” of spectators and daredevil drivers, often result in dangerous stunts like drifting and burnouts. Law enforcement agencies across the U.S. are now intensifying efforts to curb this perilous trend.

In a recent display of zero-tolerance towards street takeovers, Philadelphia authorities tracked down, towed, and impounded a striking lime-green 2019 Dodge Charger Scat Pack. This vehicle, captured on video during a reckless display of burnouts at Broad Street and Washington Avenue, led to traffic jams and posed a significant threat to public safety.

To locate the offending vehicle, the Philadelphia Police Department collaborated with officers from New Jersey and Mount Laurel, ultimately discovering the Dodge at a Mount Laurel apartment complex. Despite attempts to contact the registered owner, no one was found at the address. 

That same car can be seen in various street takeover events on YouTube from around the Philadephia area.

Our dets. are working evidence from several illegal car meets that took place this past weekend. This vehicle was towed from a residence in NJ, and there is more work ahead. This type of activity is illegal and dangerous; and we will continue to hold participants accountable! pic.twitter.com/QthyaMdM2z

— Philadelphia Police Department (@PhillyPolice) September 19, 2023

Captain Jason Smith, commanding officer of the Philadelphia Police Department’s major crimes unit, witnessed the Dodge’s reckless maneuvers firsthand. He emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “It was basically spiraling out of control.” Authorities are now on the lookout for additional vehicles involved in the illegal meet, each of which will face the same fate as the Dodge: immediate impoundment.

Following the crackdown, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney signed a bill on September 13, granting police the authority to issue violations to drivers engaged in drifting, burnouts, blocking intersections, or excessively loud music. Fines for these offenses range from $300 to $2,000.

The Dodge Charger Scat Pack, along with any other vehicles implicated in the illegal gathering, will be transported to an impound lot near the South Philadelphia airport. Owners will be required to cover towing and storage fees, amounting to $175, with a breakdown of $25 for the first five days and $30 for each subsequent day. Failure to claim the vehicle within 30 days could result in the application of a salvage title, potentially leading to its auction.