Two men involved in a street takeover in Cleveland have now been sentenced to one year in prison after pleading guilty to multiple charges, including aggravated riot, inducing panic, and arson.
John Dietrich and Gauge Franklin, both from Barberton, traveled to Cleveland last September to witness the unauthorized gathering at the intersection of West 25th Street and Lorain Avenue. Dietrich was the second individual arrested in connection with the incident.
According to their defense attorney, the two men, both car enthusiasts, learned about the event through social media and decided to simply observe. Franklin drove to the location, accompanied by a juvenile who poured gasoline onto the roadway. Dietrich then ignited the gasoline.
In the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas, Judge John Russo ruled that their actions were deliberate. In addition to their prison sentences, Dietrich and Franklin were ordered to pay $39,000 in restitution to the City of Cleveland for damages. They will also face 10 years on an arson registry for their actions.
Authorities have intensified efforts to curb street takeovers in Cleveland. In response to the growing issue, the Cleveland City Council passed legislation in November aimed at preventing such events. Law enforcement continues to monitor and address these gatherings with heightened vigilance.