Erie County lawmaker wants to crack down on illegal street racing

ERIE COUNTY, N.Y. (WKBW) – Erie County Legislator Michael Kooshoian recently introduced a resolution calling for stricter laws on illegal street racing in Erie County and Buffalo.

“The police have been great on this issue. The Buffalo police officers worked with the sheriff (office). They even used helicopters to track these things down, so my goal is to find something else, another way to get to them to help combat these issues,” Kooshoian said.

He said the illegal vehicle shows, demonstrations and competitions pose a risk to those involved and local residents.

The speed of engines is also a concern.

street race sotry — ATVs and motorcycles slow traffic on Route 5.

“The touring, I think, is something that is disturbing residents, it is something that is affecting their quality of life throughout the city of Buffalo,” he added.

The legislation states that the laws and penalties surrounding speed contests, sideshows and other related stunt behavior are not strong enough, so this would increase the penalty to a $500 or $1000 fine or up to 15 days in jail.

“And it seems like enough is enough. The quality of life is affected. It’s dangerous. It’s reckless,” he added.

This legislation is currently in committee and will eventually have a public hearing, according to Kooshoian. His legislation will have to be approved by the Legislature and the county executive.