CENTRAL OHIO -- A state representative announced the introduction of legislation to increase the penalties for illegal street racing Thursday.
NBC 4 reported with the FAST FACTS.
After speaking with a family whose daughter was injured in an accident stemming from street racing, Rep. Ted Celeste decided to take action.
“Too many Ohioans are getting injured or killed by reckless racers whose only concern is their need for speed,” Celeste said.
HB 191 generally would increase the penalties for street racing and also imposes automatic license suspension and vehicle forfeiture.
For example, a first-time street-racing offense, without any injury or death, would result in a $1,000 fine, maximum six-month prison term and a minimum one-year license suspension, and any vehicles involved in the race would be impounded.
“House Bill 191 will provide law enforcement the tools they need to put the brakes on illegal street racing," Celeste said.
The legislation was inspired by a street-racing incident in early 2008 in which OSU student Monica Durban sustained serious, life-threatening injuries.
George Staton was killed during the same street race. Authorities said Staton was racing against 18-year-old Brandon Smith on Interstate 70 near Hilliard.
Staton lost control of his car, crossing the median and hitting Durban in her vehicle, nearly killing her.
Smith, who walked away from the crash, faced several charges, including involuntary manslaughter, aggravated vehicular homicide and aggravated vehicular assault.
Smith’s car did not touch Staton’s car, Smith’s attorney contended, and therefore Smith was not responsible for Staton’s death.
A jury found Smith not guilty in Staton’s death in April 2009.
Celeste saw the need for a uniform statewide law to put an end to the dangerous practice.
The bill was expected to be heard in committee in the near future.
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