NCJ Number
122738
Journal
American Journal of Police Volume: 8 Issue: 2 Dated: (1989) Pages: 21-30
Date Published
1989
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This article summarizes the evolution of police shooting policies, followed by a review of the empirical literature on police pursuit policies.
Abstract
More restrictive police shooting policies, in conjunction with training and supervision, have significantly reduced police weapons discharges, deaths, and injuries. A similar effect can be expected from more restrictive policies for police high-speed automobile pursuits. Studies that have examined the content of police pursuit policies reveal common elements. They distinguish between an emergency response and a high-speed pursuit; present State statutes that control emergency vehicle operations; require that the risk of a high-speed pursuit be measured against the seriousness of the crime involved; and limit the number of units allowed in a pursuit. Most policies also prohibit motorcycles, unmarked cars, and cars carrying civilians from engaging in high-speed pursuit. Most pursuit policies are deficient in failing to embody the agency's mission as the guiding policy principle, in underusing the supervisor, in not containing guidelines for terminating a pursuit, and in not requiring administrative review of all pursuits. 4 notes, 16 references.