Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey announced that authorities issued over 232 civil citations and arrested seven individuals as part of her intensified campaign against unlawful street takeovers. She emphasized a “zero-tolerance” policy towards these activities.

The Boston Police Department reported that more than 100 participants were involved in an early morning street takeover on October 5, just after 2 a.m. During the chaos, individuals attempted to assault police vehicles using fireworks, cones, poles, and other objects.

Authorities noted that one police cruiser was set ablaze and completely destroyed, necessitating its removal by tow.

In response to this event, Governor Healey directed the Massachusetts State Police to collaborate closely with local law enforcement to suppress street takeovers and illegal car gatherings.

According to Boston police, a crowd exceeding 100 people took part in the street takeover on October 5. (Charlotte Aunger via Storyful)

Healey announced on Thursday that, as a result of the increased enforcement surrounding street takeovers, 232 civil citations, 20 criminal summonses and 74 warnings were issued. Seven arrests were also made, she said, adding that 15 vehicles were also towed.

“These illegal street takeovers cause public disorder, damage property and pose a significant threat to the safety of both area residents and police officers. That’s why I declared a zero-tolerance policy and directed State Police to dedicate any necessary resources to support local police with deterring and responding to them,” Healey said. 

“Most importantly, we saw none of the disruptions in our communities like we’ve seen in the past few weeks. And it’s thanks to the great police work across the state.”

She also issued a warning to people thinking about going to a street takeover.

Police in Boston say the street takeover resulted in a cruiser being torched. (WFXT)

“I’m also going to continue to make my message clear to people whether they’re coming from Massachusetts or coming from outside of Massachusetts. We’ve got zero tolerance for this stuff. Zero tolerance. And as shown by this past weekend’s efforts, we’ll find you, we’ll hold you accountable,” Healey said.

During the news conference, Healey also announced $14 million in safety grants to cities and towns throughout the state that will go toward supporting traffic enforcement and stopping illegal activities such as street takeovers.

Two people were arrested during the street takeover — Julian Bowers, 18, of Cumberland, Rhode Island, and William Cantwell, 19, from Warwick, Rhode Island. They were charged with assault and battery on a police officer, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct and malicious destruction of property over $1,200.

Julian Bowers, 18, and William Cantwell, 19, of Rhode Island were arrested in the street takeover, according to officials. (WFXT)

Cantwell allegedly used a pole to smash a police cruiser, and Bowers is accused of throwing objects at police.

The two men pleaded not guilty, and a judge set bail at $500 for Bowers and $1,000 for Cantwell. Both were seen fist-bumping after learning the bail amount, CBS News reported. Prosecutors had asked for $15,000 cash bail for Bowers and $20,000 for Cantwell.