Factors that determine police pursuits
COLUMBIA, Mo (KMIZ)
Authorities are still searching for the driver of a stolen vehicle that hit multiple cars after running a red light during a police pursuit on Thursday night.
According to Columbia Fire, two women were seriously injured in the crash.
One of the women injured was a passenger in the stolen car.
The suspect took off on foot after the crash and has not been found.
According to the Boone County Sheriff's Office, a motor vehicle pursuit may be initiated when a deputy has reason to believe that the suspect has committed an infraction, misdemeanor or felony.
The decision to continue a pursuit must be weighed on safety concerns as unaware drivers and pedestrians are along the route.
The Boone County's Sheriff's Department says, when the risks of injury to members of the public become greater than the consequences of apprehension then the pursuit is no longer reasonable.
The following factors determine if a pursuit should be initiated, continued or terminated in Boone County.
- Seriousness of the Offense.
- Danger to the public.
- Weather and road conditions.
- Speed of the pursuit.
- Ability to maintain control of the patrol vehicle at the speed driven.
- Location of the pursuit.
- Volume and speed of other vehicle traffic.
- Can an arrest be made at a later time and the age of a suspect if known.
The Columbia Police Department's pursuit policy states, to initiate or continue a pursuit any action taken by an officer must first and foremost be to protect and serve the safety of the public.
