Oklahoma House of Representatives
Representative Lucky Lamons
2300 North Lincoln Blvd.
Room #333
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105
We are writing this letter to inform you of our extreme concern in regard to the current laws as they pertain to police pursuits. As you are aware, police pursuits are one of the most dangerous acts a police officer can engage in. In addition, citizens are subject to the dangers that pursuits bring. The State of Oklahoma has been very progressive in training. Our respective police departments have spent a considerable amount of time and effort in the field of pursuit training and technology. The third prong in this important subject is legislation.
Currently, eluding the police can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony
(Title 21, Section 540A). Under both of these premises, we suggest that the State of Oklahoma take appropriate administrative measures to revoke the individuals drivers license upon arrest. This request is similar to the current proceedings that occur once a subject is arrested for driving under the influence. This action could quite possibly deter an individual from subsequent eluding violations while awaiting the criminal proceedings.
Eluding the police can be a felony if the act endangers any other person. Even though that classification can bring a penalty up to five years, it has been rare that an individual has served significant jail time. It is our sincere belief that eluding the police in a vehicle is a violent crime. The propensity of violence is high and the punishment should reflect that.
We are requesting that the felony eluding law be placed under Title 21, Section 13.1. This would require an individual to serve not less than 85% of any sentence of imprisonment imposed by the judicial system prior to becoming eligible for consideration for parole. This reformation in the current law has the potential of deterring this dangerous criminal offense and minimizing the risk of injury to innocent citizens.
Please feel free to contact either one of us if you have any questions or concerns. We have chosen you based on your vast experiences as a former police officer and would hope that your background will assist in educating other legislators about this issue. We do intend to discuss this with other legislators as the session begins. Your sincere consideration into this matter is appreciated.
Sergeant Travis Yates Sergeant Mike Carter
Tulsa Police Department Sand Springs Police Department