‘We’re going to solve this problem;’ State reps preparing to present bill cracking down on ‘hooning’

TROTWOOD — The city of Trotwood is calling on lawmakers to increase punishments for drivers who are caught “hooning,” drifting and drag racing on city streets.

Mayor Mary McDonald and other city officials were joined by State Representatives Phil Plummer (R-Dayton) and Andre White (R-Kettering) Friday to discuss the needs for changes in state laws. This came less than a week after a group of people were seen doing donuts and drifting at six locations in Montgomery County, including Downtown Dayton.

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Trotwood Police Chief Erik Wilson said the hooning that was witnesses this weekend actually started in Trotwood.

McDonald said she wants the state lawmakers to increase punishment for drivers who are caught driving dangerously.

“Driving is a privilege that’s given to individuals that agree to follow the rules of the road. Those individuals that choose to be reckless, drive on the road risked our lives, and the lives and properties of others,” McDonald said, stating that she believes the current laws lack the ability to change reckless behaviors.

Plummer said he plans on introducing a bill, with White as his co-sponsor, that would increase fines and punishments for drivers. The legislation would also give police the ability to seize cars.

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“We’re going to solve this problem because the community has spoken, and they’ve had enough,” Plummer said. “We’re going to throw every asset the state has to supplement these guys that do a great job locally.”

Plummer said Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine and Attorney General Dave Yost plan to support the bill.

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