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Police high speed chases

Posted by Paul M. Aaroe, II | Aug 29, 2024 | 0 Comments

The recent crash on Hecktown Road resulting in a death raises questions. The police initiated a high speed chase of a person with an expired registration.
 
Pennsylvania law requires police departments to develop standards for “hot pursuit”. 
Pa law 75 Pa 6342 sets rules for these departments. It states:

(c)  Policy guidelines.--Each police department policy shall include, but not be limited to, the following procedural elements:

(1)  Decision making criteria or principles for initiation of pursuit. These criteria or principles may include, but not be limited to:

(i)  The potential for harm or immediate or potential danger to others if the fleeing individual or individuals escape.

(ii)  The seriousness of the offense committed or believed to have been committed by the individual or individuals attempting to flee.

(iii)  Safety factors that pose a risk to police officers, other motorists, pedestrians and other persons.

(2)  Responsibilities of the pursuing officers.

(3)  Responsibilities for the communications center.

(4)  Responsibilities of the field supervisor.

(5)  Traffic regulations during pursuit, including, but not limited to, the use of emergency equipment, audio signals and visual signals.

(6)  Pursuit tactics.

(7)  Roadblock usage.

(8)  Communication and coordination of pursuit protocol for interjurisdictional pursuit.

(9)  Decision making criteria or principles for termination of pursuit. These criteria or principles may include, but not be limited to, safety factors that pose a risk to police officers, other motorists, pedestrians and other persons.

According to a 2023 report from the Police Executive Research Forum, Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) protocol for high-speed chases states that pursuits should only occur when two conditions are met: 
  • The potential for harm to others if the suspect escapes 
     
  • Safety risks to police officers, pedestrians, and other motorists 
     
 

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Paul M. Aaroe, II

Why Paul Aaroe is considered the “go to” DUI Lawyer in the Lehigh Valley: **Experience and Expertise** With over 30 years of experience in DUI defense, Paul Aaroe has handled thousands of DUI cases. His deep understanding of DUI laws and his strategic approach to defense make him a formidable a...

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