Street Takeovers

If you see a street takeover in progress call 911

What is a street takeover?

A street takeover is an event where a group of individuals gather using motor vehicles to engage in reckless and dangerous activities. These events can, and have, involved blocking intersections for spectators to watch vehicles race and/or perform acts of reckless driving posing risks to public safety.

Have existed for many years but there has been a significant increase in sideshow/takeover events in the United States since 2022, post-pandemic.
They occur with little notice producing large crowds and create risks to the public and law enforcement.
Some of the events coincide with organized special events where large groups form then congregate in other areas.
There have been fifty-two known meets as of May 5th, 2025, in Milwaukee area resulting in illegal street racing, takeover/sideshows confirmed by police calls for service, community partners, outside law enforcement agencies, and citizens notifying the police department when events take place.

Why are they a problem?

Pose risk to public, attendees/participants, and law enforcement/first responders

Reckless/dangerous maneuvers performed in uncontrolled areas with large amounts of spectators in close proximity
Some attendees known/suspected to attend while in unlawful possession and/or discharging firearms
Fires ignited in center of “the pit”
Discharging fireworks at or from vehicles
Attendees swarming responding squads
In some cases attendees have attacked citizens/vehicles passing by
Create delayed first responder responses
Draw large crowds where individuals feel a sense of anonymity to engage in other behaviors. Potential for “flash mobs” to assemble
Pose a risk to private/public property and critical infrastructure
Some participants known/suspected to be using stolen motor vehicles and/or parts
Likely unreported crime incidents and additional suspected criminal activity at events
Noise nuisance
Traffic congestion