NCJ Number
150144
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 61 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1994) Pages: 59-64
Date Published
1994
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Data from 44 of the 51 Illinois police agencies surveyed in 1991 formed the basis of an analysis of police pursuits.
Abstract
The purposive research design included agencies of varying sizes and locations. Several research instruments were used. Information was collected through separate questionnaires completed by 784 police officers and 35 police executives, through personal interviews with officers and administrators in 29 police agencies, and through telephone interviews covering the organizational characteristics of 35 agencies. Results revealed that obtaining specific data was difficult. Pursuit training did not exist in any substantial form. Police officers perceived agency policies are more restrictive and discouraging of pursuits than did administrators. Results also revealed that police officers underreported their pursuits. Both police officers and administrators lacked a clear understanding of their agencies' pursuit policies and procedures. Findings indicated the need for well-developed, highly restrictive pursuit policies and stringent procedures; proper training; adequate data; good supervision; critical incident review boards; and states' review of their pursuit laws. 14 reference notes