PIKESVILLE, Md. — Authorities dismantled eleven illegal exhibition driving events late Saturday night and into early Sunday morning across Baltimore and surrounding counties. The Maryland Car Rally Task Force, in collaboration with the Maryland State Police Special Operations Division, the Baltimore Regional Auto Theft Task Force (RATT), and local police agencies, coordinated efforts to curb the unlawful gatherings in Baltimore, Prince George’s, and Anne Arundel counties.
Police responded to several locations where up to 200 participants had gathered, attempting to shut down intersections to perform dangerous stunts. The incidents began around 10:40 p.m. in Baltimore and continued through the early hours, with events occurring in Windsor Mill, Catonsville, Glen Burnie, Laurel, White Marsh, and Linthicum Heights.
Authorities made seven arrests, recovered one stolen vehicle, and seized an illegal firearm. Among those arrested was Daniel Linton, 20, of Port Deposit, who was charged with assault on police, malicious destruction of property, and related traffic offenses. Sh’Nard Martinez-Eric Pope, 24, of Baltimore, Chase Andrew Cover, 19, of Halethorpe, and Alycia Destiny Cropper, 22, of Middle River were arrested in connection with a stolen vehicle. Christian Thayn Dean, 21, of Columbia, and William Starkey, 21, of Baltimore were charged with disorderly conduct. Marcellus Cortez Swann, 33, of Baltimore was arrested for DUI and charged with carrying a handgun while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Since June 2024, the Maryland Car Rally Task Force has intensified its focus on illegal exhibition driving events, commonly known as “takeovers.” These activities involve blocking public roads for dangerous stunts, disrupting traffic, and causing property damage. The task force’s efforts include increased patrols in identified hotspot areas and comprehensive investigations to identify and prosecute those involved.
The Maryland Car Rally Task Force includes members from the Maryland State Police, the Maryland Transportation Authority Police, Baltimore City Police, and police departments from Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, Montgomery, and Prince George’s counties. The coordinated efforts continue to play a crucial role in addressing the rise of illegal exhibition driving across the region.
