Multiple Arrests After Police Break Up Illegal Car Rally in Maryland

Two Pennsylvania men charged following joint operation between police agencies

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Two Pennsylvania men, Blake Miller and Gus Roth, were arrested and charged after police said they participated in an illegal car rally in Prince George's County, Maryland. The rally was part of a wave of street takeovers across the state that led to a joint operation between the Prince George's County Police Department, Maryland State Police, and other regional partners.

Why it matters

Illegal car rallies and street takeovers have become an increasing problem in the region, causing public safety concerns, property damage, and the diversion of police resources away from other community needs. This crackdown by law enforcement aims to send a strong message that such dangerous and disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

The details

During the operation from 10 PM on February 21 to the early morning hours of February 22, police responded to multiple illegal gatherings in Prince George's County and neighboring jurisdictions. An occupant of one vehicle was seen swapping license plates to avoid detection, but the car was later found on Allentown Road. When officers approached, the driver, Blake Miller, attempted to flee, striking multiple vehicles before trying to run on foot. He was quickly apprehended. The passenger, Gus Roth, also tried to flee but was taken into custody. Officers recovered a weapon and ammunition inside the vehicle. Miller faces multiple traffic-related charges, while Roth is charged in connection with the firearm.

  • On February 21 at 10 PM, police responded to the start of the illegal car rally events.
  • In the early morning hours of February 22, the joint operation between police agencies continued.

The players

Blake Miller

A 23-year-old man from East Berlin, Pennsylvania who was arrested and charged for his participation in the illegal car rally.

Gus Roth

A 22-year-old man from Hanover, Pennsylvania who was arrested and charged as the passenger in the vehicle with Miller.

Prince George's County Police Department (PGPD)

The local police department that led the enforcement operation against the illegal car rally.

Maryland State Police (MSP)

The state police agency that participated in the joint operation with PGPD and other regional partners.

George Nader

The Chief of the Prince George's County Police Department.

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What they’re saying

“These arrests reinforce our consistent message that illegal car rallies are extremely dangerous and will not be tolerated. Additionally, Maryland State Police made two separate arrests involving a firearm during this operation. Together, the PGPD and our partner agencies will continue to enforce laws against illegal car rallies. My message is loud and clear: do not come into Prince George's County or any of our neighboring jurisdictions and engage in this dangerous and illegal behavior. These car rallies cause havoc in our streets and take police resources out of our community. I encourage county residents and our media partners to follow these cases through the entire judicial process.”

— George Nader, Chief, Prince George's County Police Department (WSET)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Blake Miller out on bail.

The takeaway

This crackdown on illegal car rallies and street takeovers in the Maryland region highlights the growing public safety concerns over this dangerous and disruptive behavior, and the commitment of law enforcement agencies to aggressively enforce laws and hold participants accountable.