'Ring Leader' In Street Racing Incidents Across CT Arrested: State PD

NORWALK, CT — A Norwalk man accused of acting as a "ring leader" in a number of street racing incidents across Connecticut was arrested Monday, according to state police.

According to an arrest summary provided by state police, Jefferson Duron, 20, was arrested over the weekend following a months-long investigation into "street takeover" events throughout the state.

During their investigation, officers obtained information through social media and undercover operations to identify participants in these illegal events.

State police said they worked proactively Sunday to combat street takeover events scheduled to occur that evening at undisclosed locations throughout the state.

According to state police, street takeovers involve illegal street racers and mobs of spectators taking over a specific area and blocking roadways, intersections, parking lots or commuter lots while initiating races, performing burnouts, setting fires and releasing fireworks.

While these events occur, spectators will cheer on participants and record videos to post on social media, state police said.

"All events can be extremely dangerous and the public is asked to be cautious when approaching one," state police said in a statement. "Racers and most spectators will not leave or back down when law enforcement arrives on scene."

See also: 'Violent' Vehicle Gathering Leaves Behind Damage, Anger: Police

In several instances, police cruisers have been boxed in and vandalized after officers arrived at the events. In one incident, a spectator displayed a firearm while jumping on the hood of a police vehicle, according to state police.

Over the past several weeks, numerous police departments and state police have responded to these takeovers, all of which are currently under investigation by the departments with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigations, according to state police.

State police said approximately 200 people took part in takeover events throughout Hartford, Tolland and New Haven counties Sunday evening.

A gray-colored Ford Mustang GT was identified as one of the vehicles leading the events. Troopers spotted the car driving south on Interstate 91 in the area of Milford and stopped the vehicle, which led to Duron's arrest, according to state police.

Duron was charged with inciting a riot, first-degree riot, first-degree reckless endangerment and reckless driving along with other motor vehicle violations.

Multiple items of evidence were also seized, including Duron's vehicle, state police said. His bond was set at $250,000 and he was scheduled to appear in court Monday.

State police are actively investigating these street racing events. Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at 860-534-1000.