NCJ Number
130971
Date Published
1991
Length
125 pages
Annotation
This research is designed to enhance California police supervisors' management of future police pursuits.
Abstract
The research consists of a futures study of the impact of pursuits on California law enforcement by the year 2001, a strategic plan that incorporates alternative policies that will achieve the desired future, and a transition plan to manage change statewide. Data analysis revealed six relevant trends during the coming decade: the application of technology, statewide legislation, litigation, supervisory controls, training, and officer accountability. South Bay City was used as a hypothetical city to gauge the impact of events on the following forecast trends: disabler technology, legislative restriction, a ban on pursuits, municipal insolvency, U.S. Supreme Court intervention, and a challenge from the American Civil Liberties Union. From these comparisons, policies are identified and included in a strategic plan. The plan recommends a pursuit policy that provides clear guidelines and establishes expectations of pursuit performance, the development and maintenance of driving-skill programs that demonstrate individual skill levels and the limits of police equipment, and the inclusion of responsible supervision charged with ensuring that performance expectations are met. The plan also recommends the development and application of technological systems that safely and consistently conclude police pursuits. 44 references and appended supplementary material