PHOENIX — The Arizona Department of Public Safety recently deployed its grappler device to detain two teenagers suspected of being involved in street racing.
On June 10, state troopers responded to reports of vehicles involved in intersection takeovers in the Valley. An incident at a Mesa intersection resulted in a car striking a pedestrian participant and then fleeing the scene.
After locating the suspect vehicle, a DPS sergeant deployed a grappler net that latched onto one of the car's tires and immobilized the vehicle.
Two 17-year-olds inside the vehicle were detained and cited for alleged street racing, DPS said.
Anyone in Arizona caught street racing could face a 20-day vehicle impound, monetary fines, and possible jail time, according to DPS.
“It’s a class one misdemeanor right out of the gate,” Valley attorney Anthony Ramirez said.
Some of the penalties include, up to six months behind bars, up to $2500 in fines. Ramirez also said it could be an automatic eight points on your driver's license.
Those caught a second time street racing Ramirez said will face a class six felony and a mandatory 10 days behind bars.
“It's really unfortunate that people think that street street racing can be fun, when not only are they endangering lives, but they're endangering their freedom because they're gonna get they're going get caught,” Ramirez said.
The grappler device has been used repeatedly by law enforcement agencies in the Valley to apprehend fleeing suspects.
Up to Speed
More ways to get 12News
On your phone: Download the 12News app for the latest local breaking news straight to your phone.
On your streaming device: Download 12News+ to your streaming device
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
We are committed to serving all of the Valley's communities, because we live here, too.
12News is the Official Home of the Arizona Cardinals and the proud recipient of the 2018 Rocky Mountain Emmy Award for Overall Excellence.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.