NC Woman Accused of Mowing Down Cop Freed on Low Bail, Sparking Police Fury

Authorities say Tanaezah Michelle Austin posted $3,000 bond just hours after allegedly hitting officer with her car during 'street takeover'.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A 25-year-old North Carolina woman accused of plowing her car into a police officer during a 'street takeover' incident in Charlotte was released on $3,000 bail just hours after her arrest, sparking outrage from law enforcement officials who say the low bond amount is unacceptable for such a serious offense.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and the criminal justice system, with police arguing that repeat offenders are being released too easily on bail, undermining public safety and officer morale. The incident also reflects a broader debate around bail reform and whether current laws adequately protect police from violent attacks.

The details

According to an arrest affidavit, Tanaezah Michelle Austin allegedly hit the gas and sped off after a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police officer ordered her to stop her black Kia Optima during a 'street takeover' incident in a Harris Teeter parking lot on March 1. Harrowing footage shows the officer being struck by the car and rolling over the hood before miraculously landing on his feet as Austin fled the scene. The officer suffered minor injuries and was treated at a hospital.

  • On March 1, the incident occurred around 3:25 a.m. in a Charlotte parking lot.
  • Austin was arrested the following day on March 2.
  • Austin posted $3,000 bond and was released from jail just hours after her arrest on March 2.
  • Austin is due back in court on March 24.

The players

Tanaezah Michelle Austin

A 25-year-old North Carolina resident accused of hitting a police officer with her car during a 'street takeover' incident in Charlotte.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police

The police department in Charlotte, North Carolina, whose officer was allegedly struck by Austin's vehicle.

Randy Sutton

A retired police lieutenant and founder of The Wounded Blue, a group that supports injured and disabled law enforcement officers.

Dan Redford

The president of the Charlotte Fraternal Order of Police.

Mark Harris

A U.S. Representative from North Carolina's 9th congressional district who criticized the low bail amount for Austin.

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What they’re saying

“When I hear about someone being released on a $3,000 bond for running over a police officer on video, it boggles my mind.”

— Randy Sutton, Retired police lieutenant and founder of The Wounded Blue (Fox News)

“To see a $3,000 bond for an offender, regardless of whether she has a criminal history or not, when the intent to flee was clearly there, is pathetic.”

— Dan Redford, President of the Charlotte Fraternal Order of Police (Fox News)

“Running over a police officer is of the highest level of evil. It's also a complete slap in the face for our brave law enforcement to see these kinds of criminals allowed right back on the streets. When is Charlotte going to end the crime cycle? When are magistrates going to keep bad guys behind bars? Enough is enough!”

— Mark Harris, U.S. Representative, North Carolina's 9th congressional district (Fox News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 24 whether to allow Tanaezah Michelle Austin to remain free on bail or revoke her bond.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around bail reform and whether the criminal justice system is doing enough to protect law enforcement officers from violent attacks. It also raises questions about the factors considered by judges when setting bail amounts, especially for suspects accused of deliberately targeting police.