NCJ Number
101254
Journal
Justice Quarterly Volume: 3 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1986) Pages: 1-14
Date Published
1986
Length
14 pages
Annotation
When a police officer engages in a high speed chase in a police car, the vehicle becomes a potential deadly weapon. This article defines high speed pursuit, presents considerations in the formulation of high speed-pursuit policies, and reviews the role of research in policymaking.
Abstract
High speed pursuit is defined as an active attempt by a law enforcement officer operating an emergency vehicle to apprehend alleged criminals in a moving motor vehicle, when the driver of the vehicle increases speed or takes other evasive action to avoid apprehension. A January 1985 review of 37 pursuit policies from police departments in 25 States indicates that a model policy should include information concerning the officer's training and tactical preparation, vehicle type and condition, likelihood of successful apprehension, and knowledge of the incident (offense seriousness), traffic and road conditions, geography, location of the pursuit, and time of day. A study of 683 pursuits in California reveals that 77 percent of suspects were apprehended, 70 percent ended without accident, and 68 percent lasted less than 5 miles. In addition, traffic violations were the most common offense, most pursuits occurred at night, and apprehension rates were significantly affected by the event preceding pursuit. This type of research can help in policy development and in the resolution of liability claims. 32 references and 5 case citations.