Suffolk Reporter

New York State Senator Anthony Palumbo has called for stricter penalties for reckless driving following a "Street Takeover" on 25a at Miller Place Road, which resulted in one injury and delayed emergency response. The senator was joined by local officials in this call to action.

Senator Palumbo stated, "Long Islander’s safety and quality of life continues to be eroded by soft on crime policies emanating from Albany. So-called Street Takeovers are a growing and dangerous phenomena that are now happening right here in our communities." He emphasized the need for the state legislature to act swiftly to increase penalties for reckless driving and interference with emergency services.

To address the issue, Senator Palumbo introduced legislation S.9925 aimed at increasing penalties for individuals who interfere with emergency medical services. Additionally, he co-sponsored Senate Bill S.7717a with Senator Rob Rolison, which seeks to establish aggravated reckless driving as an offense and allow vehicle seizure and forfeiture related to such incidents.

"As elected officials, we need to send a strong message that these incidents will not be tolerated," said Senator Palumbo. County Executive Ed Romaine expressed support, stating, "This kind of reckless behavior will not be tolerated in Suffolk County."

Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico highlighted the impact of street takeovers on public safety: "Senator Palumbo fully appreciates and understands the outrage we all share by seeing an ambulance stopped by those who unlawfully blocked this intersection."

Councilwoman Jane Bonner commended Senator Palumbo's leadership: "His commitment to increasing fines and penalties for those involved sends a strong message that this reckless behavior will not be tolerated."

County Legislator Chad Lennon urged residents to report such gatherings: "We will not stand for this in our community... Together we will keep our communities safe."

Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio supported the proposed legislation, emphasizing its importance: "As we continue to witness the rise of reckless driving in our communities, it’s clear that immediate action is necessary."

The event saw attendance from various state and local officials including Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Chief Assistant District Attorney Allen Bode, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico, Councilwoman Jane Bonner, Assemblywoman Jodi Giglio, Assemblyman Ed Flood, Legislators Chad Lennon, Dominick Thorne, James Mazzarella, Catherine Stark, Paul Marra Chief of Suffolk EMS, and Kevin Paterson Senior Fire Marshal Suffolk County Fire Rescue.