Two men have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in a series of dangerous street takeovers that took place across Cleveland in late September 2024, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor Michael C. O’Malley announced.
Iziah Bond, 28, received a three-year prison sentence for participating in multiple takeovers on September 28, while 18-year-old Robert Polk was sentenced to nine months for orchestrating and promoting events on both September 28 and 29.
“Judgment day came for these two, and their sentences should serve as a warning to anyone considering similar reckless behavior,” said Prosecutor O’Malley. “With summer approaching, let this be a reminder that street takeovers will not be tolerated in Cuyahoga County.”
According to prosecutors, Polk played a central role in planning the events, using earpieces and radios to coordinate activity and scout locations. He also served as a videographer, promoting the takeovers and ensuring they were documented for social media.
Bond was found to have participated in at least five separate takeovers within a six-hour span. Authorities said he drove a black 2012 Dodge Charger through various intersections in Cleveland, blocking traffic and performing stunts such as burnouts and donuts. His vehicle was later found to have concealed plates and stolen parts, and a firearm was recovered from inside.
The first incident involving Bond occurred just after 11 p.m. on Sept. 28 near East 55th Street and Woodland Avenue. Additional takeovers followed at locations including Lee Road and Miles Avenue, West 65th and Lorain Avenue, West 25th and Lorain Avenue, and finally, Broadway Avenue around 3 a.m.
Authorities said these events featured drag racing, fireworks, gunfire, and even the obstruction of an RTA bus. During the final incident, three individuals were shot.
Bond was arrested on October 18, 2024, and Polk was taken into custody on December 17.
Officials said the crackdown reflects a growing effort to combat illegal street racing and reckless driving events that endanger public safety and disrupt neighborhoods.