Officer Killed in Chase Sparks Questions Regarding Appropriateness of Police Pursuits

RINCON, GA- Wsav.com writes that a police officer in Long County was killed during a car chase last month. The tragic collision has led some people in the state to wonder when these pursuits are really warranted. In Liberty County, a separate chase that took place also last month killed two innocent bystanders.*

The police involved in both of the deadly pursuits reported that they had, in fact, followed their protocols. Every year, officers in the state engage in hundreds of chases. These officers undergo training related to how to carry out these risky endeavors. Emergency Vehicle Operations Courses involve classroom components and real hands-on practice to ensure officers know how to engage in these pursuits. 

When out on patrol, officers have just seconds to determine whether they should follow a fleeing driver. The considerations they have to make must include the traffic conditions, the offense, their own vehicle’s capabilities, and many other factors. 

One officer stated that when they stop a drunk driver, they may need to pursue because that person is posing an immediate risk to the safety of people on the road. The numbers from 2017 indicate that in more than half of all pursuits, the chase will end in a crash. In nearly half, the suspect gets away from the police. The officer stated that young police officers are more likely to engage in chases than veterans on the force. These chases are full of risks, and officers who are caught up in the chase can sometimes end up running through traffic signs or making other errors as well. 

If you are on the road and see a chase, police say the best thing to do is pull to the right side of the road. 

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Sources: https://www.wsav.com/crime-safety/when-are-police-chases-appropriate-we-asked-georgia-state-patrol/