Drag racing on Memphis streets could soon be a felony

MEMPHIS, Tennessee — A bill that would make drag racing a felony on Tennessee streets and punishable by up to six years in prison is headed to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.

House Bill 2814, sponsored by Senator Brent Taylor (D-Memphis) and Representative John Gillespie (R-Memphis), was passed by the 113th General Assembly.

The bill enhances the penalty for illegal drag racing from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony.

“Illegal street racing is a major issue in Memphis and across the state that has led to senseless injuries and death,” Gillespie said. “Tennesseans are tired of feeling unsafe on the road because of careless and dangerous drivers. This legislation seeks to encourage safe driving while serving as a deterrent for people looking to recklessly take over our streets.”

According to Gillespie’s office, during a six-month period in 2022, Memphis police reported more than 300 arrests for drag racing and reckless driving. Gillispie said that as of March, more than 35 people had been arrested in Nashville for charges relating to street racing since the year prior.

In February, Memphis City Council questioned Memphis Police officials about street “takeovers” after an event blocked an underpass near the airport.

Video stills shown at a council meeting appear to show dozens of cars parked on Winchester at Swinnea underneath an airport runway overpass, with some standing on top of vehicles.

Interim Chief C.J. Davis told council members MPD had seen a lot of car takeovers in another precinct in the city, so resources were sent there.

“We know we have to continue to move where these problems are and try to get in front of them before they actually happen,” Davis said

She also said she was working on an ordinance allowing a 20-day hold on vehicles involved in these incidents to deter them.

Councilman Canale said he preferred permanent seizure of the vehicles.

Along with a six-year prison sentence, a Class E felony is punishable with a fine of up to $3,000.

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