WASHINGTON — Starting June 1, anyone in Maryland found to be taking part in what officials are calling "car meet-ups" or "exhibition driving" could face a stiff fine. The new penalty is the first step Maryland officials are taking to curb the violence spotted at the meet-ups.
Most recently, two men were shot at a car meet-up in District Heights. According to the Prince George's County Police Department, the shooting happened just before 2 a.m. in a shopping center parking lot along Marlboro Pike. One of the victims, later identified as 26-year-old John Phipps of Waldorf, was found dead inside a car. The second man was taken to an area hospital for help.
Witnesses say a large group was doing burnouts and revving their engines before the shooting.
"Truth is anything can happen, and being at an illegal event like this, you're putting yourself in danger," said Prince George's County State's Attorney Aisha Braveboy.
When the new penalty goes into effect on June 1, anyone caught participating in a car meet-up in Maryland could face a fine of up to $1,000. Drivers could also face up to eight points on their license and 60 days in jail.
However, if someone is seriously injured during the meet-up, participants could see the points on their licenses go up to 12 and a jail sentence of up to a year.
Braveboy says she believes these penalties will deter people from taking part in car meet-ups altogether.
"The goal is to not have events like this happening," said Braveboy. "They're dangerous. People can die, they have died!"
These penalties are not just for drivers. By just being in the audience, you're already committing a crime.
"We want to ensure that everyone who participates, whether they are driving, or with the flags, or there to cheer," Braveboy explained. "Everyone is committing an offense at that point and everyone is going to be held accountable."
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