Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Thursday he is launching a task force in an effort to stop dangerous street takeovers across Texas.
In a news release, Gov. Abbott directed Texas DPS to investigate the recent street takeovers that he said may have become increasingly dangerous.
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“We must send a clear message that these reckless, coordinated criminal events will not be tolerated in Texas,” Abbott said. “This statewide task force will work closely with local officials and law enforcement to investigate, prosecute, and prevent these dangerous street takeovers. Working together, we can ensure Texans in communities large and small remain safe.”
The newly-launched taskforce will be led by members of the DPS Criminal Investigations Division, Texas Highway Patrol, Aviation Operations Division, and Counterterrorism Division, the release stated.
The task force will also focus on state-level investigations with the goal of making arrests and seizing assets such as vehicles and weapons, leading to prison time for criminals caught.
Gov. Abbott and the Texas DPS are urging Texans to report suspicious activity related to street takeovers by submitting a confidential report through iWatchTexas, by calling 844-643-2251 or 911.
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