LAS VEGAS — In a dramatic display of zero tolerance for lawlessness, Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officials publicly shredded two vehicles seized from illegal "teen takeovers" and stunt-driving incidents Wednesday morning at SA Recycling in North Las Vegas.
The powerful industrial claw lifted a 2009 Infiniti G37S, marked with graffiti including "OK" and a smiley face, and a damaged 2007 Nissan 350Z high into the air before dropping them into the massive shredder, reducing the cars to twisted scrap in minutes.
Sheriff McMahill addressed the media at the recycling yard, emphasizing that the destruction was no publicity stunt but a serious commitment to public safety."Illegal street racing, street takeovers, it is not acceptable," McMahill said. "The vehicles behind me... were used in illegal stunt driving activities here in our valley."He delivered a blunt message to anyone thinking of joining the chaos: "If you participate in these criminal activities, we’re going to arrest you, we’re going to prosecute you, and we’re going to destroy those vehicles that you use to create havoc in our community."
The sheriff added that the demonstration "reflects our commitment to public safety, accountability, and preventing future harm."
The vehicles had been used in dangerous activities that put lives at risk. One driver of the Infiniti participated in a street takeover, drifting dangerously close to spectators and nearly colliding with other vehicles. The driver of the Nissan engaged in repeated tricks. Both were arrested on charges including felony evasion and reckless/trick driving. One suspect even tried to alter the vehicle’s appearance to evade detection.
These so-called "teen takeovers", chaotic gatherings where groups take over streets for reckless driving, donuts, and stunts, have become a growing problem in the Las Vegas Valley and across the country. The events often involve stolen or modified cars, block traffic, spark fights, damage property, and have led to injuries and deaths.
