Portland Police Expand Ability To Tow Cars, Part Of Racing Crackdown

PORTLAND, OR — With street takeovers becoming an increasing problem in Portland, Portland police officers have been given a new tool to use. The police bureau revised its policy on towing cars to give officers more latitude about when to have a car towed.

Street takeovers happen when large groups gather for drag racing. Earlier this year, the bureau launched regular street racing/takeover missions in which teams of officers crack down on street takeovers.

The bureau said that the most significant change allows officers to have a car towed "for certain offenses such as driving uninsured, suspended, without licenses, or in a street takeover."

Police officials said that the changes bring Portland in line with neighboring law enforcement agencies and state law.

Before making the change, the police bureau invited the public and outside experts to comment on the proposal. The bureau said that support for the change was overwhelming.

Police officials added that while the new rules make it easier for officers to have car towed, it does not require officers to tow them.

"The policy specifically encourages Police Bureau members to exercise discretion in impounding vehicles under circumstances that may create undue hardship or risk to the occupants," the bureau said in a statement.

"Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to: the presence of young children, elderly, or disabled persons; vehicles equipped for use by such persons; and vehicles used as homes."