Hyattsville, MD, January 6, 2026
Maryland law enforcement agencies have successfully dismantled seven illegal car rallies across the state, leading to four arrests. The operation targeted locations in Howard, Prince George’s, and Montgomery counties, preventing large crowds from participating in dangerous driving exhibitions. The raids are part of ongoing efforts by the Maryland Car Rally Task Force to ensure public safety and enforce laws against illegal street racing activities.
Maryland Authorities Disrupt Multiple Illegal Car Rallies, Four Arrested
Hyattsville, MD – On Friday, January 2, 2026, the Maryland Car Rally Task Force, in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies, successfully dismantled seven large-scale illegal car rallies across Howard, Prince George’s, and Montgomery counties. The operation led to the arrest of four individuals on various charges.
Details of the Operation
The enforcement began at 9 p.m., targeting public roads, industrial zones, and parking lots. The task force managed to prevent crowds of up to 300 participants from engaging in exhibition driving, disorderly conduct, and road shutdowns. Four major rallies were disrupted at the following locations:
- 2801 52nd Avenue in Hyattsville
- 12103 Indian Creek Court in Beltsville
- Marlboro Pike at Dower House Road in Upper Marlboro
- 3912 Ironwood Place in Hyattsville
Additionally, three other rallies were prevented from forming at:
- 702 King Farm Boulevard in Rockville
- 8927 McGaw Court in Columbia
- 9300 Alaking Court in Capitol Heights
Arrests and Charges
During the operation, four individuals were arrested:
- Two 17-year-old males from Silver Spring, Maryland, were charged with possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle and possession of a handgun in a vehicle.
- Antonio Armando Chicas, 23, of Woodbridge, Virginia, was arrested on various gun possession charges.
- Angel Urrutia Barahona, 21, of Stafford, Virginia, also faced multiple gun possession charges.
Background on the Maryland Car Rally Task Force
The Maryland Car Rally Task Force was established to address the growing issue of illegal exhibition driving events, commonly known as “chipeos.” These events often involve large gatherings of vehicles performing stunts, leading to public safety concerns. The task force comprises the Maryland State Police, Maryland Transportation Authority Police, and police departments from Prince George’s, Baltimore City, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, and Montgomery counties. Their collaborative efforts aim to prevent such unlawful activities and ensure the safety of Maryland residents.
Legal Implications
In 2024, Maryland enacted House Bill 601, making exhibition driving and street racing illegal. Offenders convicted under this law can face up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $1,000. If the illegal conduct results in harm to another person, the maximum prison sentence increases to one year. These measures underscore the state’s commitment to maintaining public safety and deterring dangerous driving behaviors.
Community Impact
The successful disruption of these rallies highlights the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts in curbing illegal driving exhibitions. Residents are encouraged to report any such activities to local authorities to help maintain community safety and prevent potential hazards associated with these events.
FAQs
What are “chipeos”?
“Chipeos” are organized, unpermitted car meets in public spaces involving music, dancing, and attracting large crowds. These events often lead to exhibition driving, disorderly behavior, and road shutdowns, posing significant public safety risks.
What charges were the individuals arrested on?
The two 17-year-old males were charged with possession of a loaded handgun in a vehicle and possession of a handgun in a vehicle. Antonio Armando Chicas, 23, and Angel Urrutia Barahona, 21, both from Virginia, were arrested on various gun possession charges.
What is the Maryland Car Rally Task Force?
The Maryland Car Rally Task Force is a collaborative initiative comprising the Maryland State Police, Maryland Transportation Authority Police, and police departments from several counties, including Prince George’s, Baltimore City, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Howard, and Montgomery. The task force focuses on preventing illegal exhibition driving events and ensuring public safety.
What penalties do offenders face under House Bill 601?
Offenders convicted under House Bill 601 can face up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $1,000. If the illegal conduct results in harm to another person, the maximum prison sentence increases to one year.
Key Features of the Operation
| Location | Action Taken | Arrests Made | Charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyattsville, MD | Dismantled 2 rallies | 2 juveniles | Possession of loaded handgun in vehicle |
| Beltsville, MD | Dismantled 1 rally | None | N/A |
| Upper Marlboro, MD | Dismantled 1 rally | None | N/A |
| Rockville, MD | Prevented 1 rally | None | N/A |
| Columbia, MD | Prevented 1 rally | None | N/A |
| Capitol Heights, MD | Prevented 1 rally | None | N/A |
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