police
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posted on 5-9-2005 at 18:54
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Policy Database
List of policies
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MarkC
Captain
Posts: 211
Registered: 28-9-2006
Location: Salem, Oregon
Member Is Offline
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posted on 17-1-2007 at 21:44
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I saw there was over 1,100 hits on this thread and figured they were from internet searches, so.....I'll start things off and post up our related
Directives.
Here is the Salem, Or. Emergency Vehicle Operations Directive ( Policy / SOP ). If you came to this site looking for a model, I think ours is pretty
good  No bias here . 
EMERGENCY VEHICLE OPERATION
Directive 4.02
Date Revised 02-12-04
Office of Primary Responsibility:
PATROL SECTION
I PURPOSE
Pursuits of time, and the vehicular pursuit of fleeing suspects, present inherent dangers to the lives of the public, officers, and suspects involved
in the pursuit. The primary purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to officers in securing a balance between our mission to protect the public,
and our obligation to enforce laws and apprehend violators.
Legal constraints for the operation of emergency vehicles are provided in Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) 820.300 and 820.320. All members of the
department will operate police emergency vehicles in accordance with these statutes.
II DEFINITIONS
A. Boxing In: The surrounding of a violator=s stopped vehicle by police vehicles with the intent to prevent the further movement of that vehicle.
B. Channelization: The positioning of objects or vehicles in a manner intended to direct or redirect the path of a fleeing vehicle.
C. Divided Highway: A roadway which includes a physical barrier between traffic traveling in opposite directions.
D. Paralleling: Participating in a vehicle pursuit by proceeding in the same general direction as the pursued vehicle and at approximately the same
speed while traveling on an alternate street or highway which is adjacent to the pursuit route.
E. Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT): A forced rotational vehicle stop of a motor vehicle operated by a non-compliant suspect.
F. Police Vehicles as defined for purposes of this policy:
1. Marked Police Vehicle: Any department vehicle appropriately marked as a police vehicle by official lettering or insignia and equipped with roof
mounted police light bar and siren as defined in the ORS.
2. Unmarked Police Vehicle: Any department vehicle regardless of color, markings, lighting or siren that is not equipped with a roof mounted police
light bar.
G. Primary Unit: The police vehicle that initiates a pursuit or any unit that subsequently assumes control of the pursuit as the first police vehicle
immediately behind the fleeing vehicle.
H. Pursuit of Time: Operation of a police vehicle while exercising the privileges granted under and in accordance with ORS 820.300 and 820.320 when
responding to any emergency call or any emergency.
I. Ramming: The intentional contact between a police vehicle and a pursued vehicle which may cause substantial damage, serious injury and/or death to
its occupants. It is to be considered the use of deadly force. Ramming is not considered the same as P.I.T.
J. Road Block: A restriction or obstruction(s) used or intended for the purpose of preventing unencumbered passage of fleeing motor vehicles on a
roadway in order to effect the apprehension of a suspect.
K. Secondary Unit: Any police vehicle which becomes involved as a backup to the primary unit, and follows the primary unit at a safe distance,
regardless of the pursuing jurisdiction.
L. Tire Deflation-Device Stop Sticks: Devices designed and intended to produce a controlled deflation of one or more tires of a pursued vehicle.
M. Vehicular Pursuit: The intentional, continued following of a violator in a motor vehicle whose operator is attempting to elude or flee from the
police after receiving a visible and/or audible signal from the officer to stop.
III INITIATING/TERMINATING A PURSUIT
The justification for a pursuit may be based only on information reasonably known to the officer at the time. The decision by an officer or their
supervisor to initiate or continue an emergency response or vehicle pursuit must continually weigh the benefits of immediate response or
apprehension of the violator versus the risks caused by the pursuit. After considering relevant factors, a sworn police officer may initiate an
emergency response or make a reasonable effort to pursue and apprehend or identify a suspect. A pursuit will not be initiated or continued when it
appears the pursuit would create an unreasonable risk to the public, pursuing officer(s) or suspect(s). Great reliance is placed upon the individual
officer and field supervisors in the application of their experience, judgement, and training. All officers and supervisors will be held accountable
for knowingly continuing a pursuit when circumstances indicate it should have been terminated.
The minimum factors to be considered when deciding to initiate, continue, or terminate a pursuit are:
A. Justification
1. Nature of the incident or offense and legal authority to pursue.
2. Whether the identity of the offender is known to the extent that later apprehension is possible.
3. Likelihood of successful apprehension.
B. Risk factors may include but are not restricted to...
1 Time of day, population density, and the presence of (or likelihood of encountering) vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
2. Road, weather and other environmental conditions.
3. The relative performance capabilities of the pursuit vehicle and the vehicle being pursued.
4. Speeds involved.
5. The presence of passengers in the pursued or pursuing vehicle.
C. Officer Characteristics
1. Driving skills
2. Familiarity with roads and vicinity.
3. The condition and performance capabilities of the pursuit vehicle.
4. Communications capabilities of pursuing officer, mobile radio, MDC or cell phone.
D. Officers shall immediately terminate pursuit
1. When directed to do so by a sworn supervisor.
2. When the offender=s identity becomes known and there is no immediate threat to the safety of the public or police officers.
3. When the pursued vehicle=s location is no longer known, or further attempts at apprehension would be futile.
E. When a pursuit is terminated, all Salem Police Department vehicles involved will immediately discontinue the pursuit. Officers shall take some
clear, direct action indicating that the pursuit is abandoned such as pulling to the shoulder or turning off of the street. Continuing to follow the
vehicle is the same as continuing the pursuit.
F. The termination of a pursuit does not preclude any officer from further attempts to stop the suspect vehicle if the circumstances that lead to the
termination no longer exist.
IV VEHICLE PURSUIT MANAGEMENT TACTICS AND VEHICULAR USE
OF FORCE CONTINUUM
Pursuit management tactics must be justified and reasonable, and should be employed in accordance with the vehicular use of force continuum whenever
practical. Vehicular pursuits, however, are dynamic events and it is not necessary to increase force in sequential order.
A. General Guidelines
1. Officers will use extreme care when disobeying traffic control devices, even where the statutes specifically permit such conduct. Officers must
make use of visible and audible warning devices to alert other motorists and pedestrians. State law also requires the officer to exercise "due
regard for the safety of all other persons" (ORS 820.300).
2. Officers operating unmarked vehicles may engage in vehicle pursuits only when the fleeing suspect represents an immediate and direct threat to
life. Whenever a marked vehicle becomes available, it shall assume the role of the primary unit. The unmarked vehicle will then immediately withdraw
from active pursuit.
3. Officers operating marked police motorcycles may initiate and engage in vehicle pursuits when weather and related environmental conditions allow.
They shall disengage from active pursuit when adequate support from marked patrol cars becomes available.
4. Unless otherwise directed by a sworn supervisor, no more than three police vehicles (including K-9) should become actively involved in a
pursuit.
5. Any primary or backup unit sustaining damage to (or failure of) essential vehicular equipment during pursuit, will not continue in the pursuit.
6. Officers should not pursue vehicles which proceed the wrong way on a divided highway, freeway, or freeway access unless specifically authorized by
a sworn supervisor. Vehicle pursuit the opposite direction on one way streets is discouraged.
7. When in pursuit of a fleeing suspect, officers should not attempt to overtake or pass the suspect. Except when employing P.I.T., the pursuing
officer(s) should keep a safe distance from the suspect to ensure proper braking and reaction time.
8. Paralleling of a vehicular pursuit in progress may be employed to monitor a suspect=s vehicle when traveling behind the vehicle is either unsafe or
prohibited. Paralleling units are considered active participants in the pursuit for purposes of this policy.
B. Vehicular Use of Force Continuum
Department Policy 4.01, Rules of Conduct, III. (B), S.O.P. 5.02 and ORS 161.235 and 161.239 authorizing and regulating the use of physical and deadly
physical force shall be adhered to during any pursuit and subsequent arrest.
1. Tire Deflation Devices - Stop Sticks: Considered use of physical force when deployed in accordance with T.B. 7.09.
2. Channelization: Considered use of physical force. Shall always allow sufficient distance, visibility and warning to allow for all vehicles to
safely maneuver to avoid the temporary barrier.
3. P.I.T. (less than 40 mph.): Considered use of physical force when employed in accordance with T.B. 7.11.
4. Boxing In: Considered use of physical force. Utilizing boxing on a stopped vehicle for preventing the initiation or continuation of a vehicle
pursuit is encouraged. Boxing in of a moving vehicle is prohibited.
5. P.I.T. (40 mph. or greater): Considered use of deadly physical force. Employing the P.I.T. technique at high speeds should be considered as an
alternative to other deadly force options to reduce the risks associated with the use of deadly physical force.
6. Intentional Ramming: Considered use of deadly physical force, and due to the inherent risks to officers, suspects and public, must be considered
only when all lesser means are impractical or have failed.
7. Roadblocks: Considered use of deadly physical force. Roadblocks by their very nature are difficult to employ safely and effectively, and should be
used only when necessary and justified.
The selected location must be visible to approaching traffic for a reasonable distance allowing sufficient time for the suspect and all other vehicles
to safely stop. Vehicles or other barriers used must be unoccupied, marked, and/or lighted. The location of the roadblock shall be communicated to
all other units involved in the incident. Provisions must be taken to release or detour vehicles not involved in the incident that arrive prior to
the suspect.
8. Firearms: Considered use of deadly physical force. Officers should not discharge a firearm from a moving vehicle (or at a fleeing vehicle) for the
purpose of stopping the vehicle. The use of firearms against the suspect(s) in a vehicle shall adhere to Policy 4.01, R.O.C., III. (B) and S.O.P.
5.02. and ORS 161.239.
V VEHICLE PURSUIT OFFICER RESPONSIBILITIES
A. When a motor vehicle pursuit is initiated, the officer involved should immediately report the following to the dispatcher:
1. Unit identifier, and the fact that they are in vehicle pursuit.
2. The location and direction of travel.
3. Description of the vehicle and occupants.
4. Reason for the pursuit.
5. Speed of the pursued vehicle and police vehicle if different.
6. Changes in speeds, location, and direction of travel during the pursuit.
7. Location at the time the pursuit is terminated and the reason for termination.
VI SECONDARY UNIT=S RESPONSIBILITIES
A. The second unit in a pursuit will assume the responsibility for all radio communication relating to the pursuit.
B. The secondary unit will be responsible for advising the field supervisor of the number of units directly involved in the pursuit.
VII FIELD SUPERVISOR=S RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Upon being notified or becoming aware of a pursuit, the field supervisor assuming responsibility of the pursuit will notify communications and all
involved units, via radio, that they are monitoring the pursuit.
B. The supervisor is responsible for approval or disapproval and coordination of pursuit tactics, and has the discretion to order specific units into
or out of the pursuit.
C. The field supervisor may assign additional backup vehicles based on an analysis of: The nature of the offense for which the pursuit was initiated;
the number of suspects and known propensity for violence; the number of officers necessary to make an arrest at the conclusion of the pursuit; and any
other articulable facts that would warrant the increased hazards caused by numerous pursuit vehicles.
D. Either the shift commander or the field supervisor shall order the termination of a pursuit when they believe the benefit of immediate apprehension
is outweighed by the risk created by the pursuit.
VIII COMMUNICATIONS CENTER RESPONSIBILITIES
Upon notification of a pursuit in progress, communications personnel:
A. Should initiate a ACode 9" and ensure that all units receive information about the pursuit.
B. Should insure that a field supervisor is monitoring the pursuit.
C. Should record all incoming information on the pursuit and the pursued vehicle, and create a major incident log.
D. Should obtain registration and all other relevant information available on the pursued vehicle and its occupants.
E. Should notify and coordinate communications and resources (including aircraft - if available) between SPD and neighboring agencies when the pursuit
may enter their jurisdiction.
F. Will ensure that all officers involved in the pursuit acknowledge the termination when a pursuit has been terminated by an officer or
supervisor.
IX INTER-JURISDICTIONAL PURSUITS
When Salem Police units become involved in a pursuit involving more than one jurisdiction, coordination of pursuit tactics between jurisdictions will
be done in accordance with the Inter-agency Pursuit Procedure which shall be included as an addendum to this policy.
A. When an officer of this department is in pursuit of a vehicle that enters a freeway or the jurisdiction of another agency, OSP or the appropriate
agency will be notified immediately and will be requested to assume primary responsibility for the pursuit. If and when the responding agency is in a
position to assume responsibility for the pursuit, involved units from this department will relinquish the pursuit. The involved officers may
continue to monitor the progress of the pursuit and provide assistance as necessary.
A. When a pursuit initiated by another law enforcement agency enters the city, the initiating agency will be responsible for the progress of the
pursuit. SPD field personnel may become actively involved in the pursuit only when requested by the pursuing agency and upon order of a SPD sworn
supervisor. Involved SPD units will comply with all applicable policies or will withdraw from the pursuit.
X REQUIRED REPORTS
Every officer involved in a vehicle pursuit shall document their actions in a report.
A. In addition to any other reports, the initiating officer must complete a Pursuit Report Form, to be included in the record of the report.
B. A copy of all reports will be routed to the appropriate division commander.
XI PURSUIT REVIEW
Every vehicular pursuit involving officers of the Salem Police Department as a primary or secondary vehicle will be reviewed by the pursuing officer=s
immediate supervisor or pursuit critique panel. Any sworn officer or supervisor who deems it in the best interests of the department may request
review by a pursuit critique panel in lieu of immediate supervisory review.
A. The purpose of pursuit reviews is to identify deficiencies in operational and administrative policies and procedures, and to examine whether the
pursuit met the standards specified in the S.O.P.
B. Pursuit critique panels shall consist of one officer of equal rank to the pursuing officer and two superior officers.
C. All involved officers shall have the option of attending any critique panel review.
D. The findings of all pursuit reviews, including those conducted solely by an officer=s supervisor, will be forwarded to the appropriate division
commander via the initiating employee=s chain of command.
E. In the event there is a review board convened as outlined in S.O.P. 6.10 for an accident arising from a pursuit, a pursuit critique panel or
supervisory review is not required.
XII ANNUAL ANALYSIS
An annual analysis will be conducted involving vehicle pursuits to evaluate patterns and trends that indicate training needs and/or directive
modification.
F:\COMMON\OPERATIONS MANUAL\DIRECTIVES\4.02 Emergency Vehicle Operation.wpd
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MarkC
Captain
Posts: 211
Registered: 28-9-2006
Location: Salem, Oregon
Member Is Offline
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posted on 17-1-2007 at 21:45
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Salem's PIT directive -
PURSUIT INTERVENTION TECHNIQUE
Directive 4.03
Dave Revised 03-21-03
Office of Primary Responsibility:
PATROL SECTION
I PURPOSE - To provide guidance in the application of the pursuit intervention technique (PIT) in accordance with S.O.P. 4.02 Emergency Vehicle
Operation.
II DEFINITION - Pursuit Intervention Technique (PIT) is a forced rotational vehicle stop of a vehicle operated by a non-compliant suspect. It is
considered a use of force (refer to S.O.P. 4.02).
III APPLICATION
PIT may be employed at the discretion of the pursuing officer with the intent to reduce the risks associated with continued vehicle pursuits when the
application of other pursuit intervention techniques is considered ineffective or impractical. PIT employed at speeds of less than 40 mph is
considered the use of physical force. The risk of physical injury to the occupants of a suspect vehicle increases as the speed at which the technique
is applied increases. Officers employing PIT at speeds of 40 mph or more should be justified in employing the use of deadly physical force as defined
by Salem Police department Policy and ORS 161.239.
A. PIT may only be employed by officers with Salem Police department approved training.
B. Vehicles with protective fender guards should be utilized whenever possible to reduce the risk of police vehicle damage. Officers shall include
(in their pursuit report) justification for employing PIT with vehicles not equipped with fender guards.
C. Whenever practical, the intent to utilize PIT must be clearly communicated to all involved units prior to implementation of the technique.
D. site selection for PIT is critical in safely and effectively employing the technique. Officers should select an area that will not increase the
possibility of injury or property damage. The following considerations should be given to site selection.
1. The presence (or approach) of conflicting traffic or pedestrians.
2. Road Hazards: Blind curves, narrow roadways, bridges, abutments, guardrails, parked vehicles, traffic islands, sign posts, utility poles, deep
ditches, waterways, and nearby structures or buildings.
E. Avoid using PIT on:
1. Motorcycles
2. Vehicles carrying hazardous materials
3. Large, heavy, or very slow-moving vehicles
4. Vehicles with a high center of gravity
F. Post PIT Procedures:
1. Should be coordinated in advance of the PIT with assisting units whenever possible.
2. Should employ the use of boxing to prevent the continued movement of the suspect vehicle.
3. Officers employing PIT should consider that officers from assisting agencies may not be familiar with the PIT technique and post PIT
procedures.
G. Reports:
1. PIT, including post-PIT boxing, is an intentional act and is not considered an accident for DMV reporting purposes except when unintentional
secondary impact occurs resulting in third party personal injury or property damage in the amount of $1000 or more.
2. The use of PIT will be documented in the accompanying Incident and Pursuit Report Forms.
C:\Documents and Settings\croll_mark\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\Content.IE5\85EFGDQV\4[1].03 Pursuit Intervention Technique.wpd
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MarkC
Captain
Posts: 211
Registered: 28-9-2006
Location: Salem, Oregon
Member Is Offline
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posted on 17-1-2007 at 21:48
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Salem's "Stop Stick" aka tire deflation devices Directive -
TIRE DEFLATION DEVICES
Directive 4.04
Date Revised 02-24-97
Office of Primary Responsibility:
EVOC LEAD INSTRUCTOR
I. INTRODUCTION - Stop Sticks are a tire deflation device designed to safely stop or slow down a vehicle pursuit. The availability of Stop Sticks is
not to be considered justification for continuing a pursuit, when circumstances indicate the pursuit should otherwise be terminated.
II STOP STICK - AUTHORIZATION - Any sworn officer who has successfully completed the appropriate Stop Stick training may deploy the Stop Sticks to
safely stop or slow down a pursuit.
III. STOP STICK PROCEDURES
A. Restrictions: Stop Sticks should NOT be deployed on motorcycles or other two wheeled vehicles; on vehicles carrying hazardous materials; or on
roadways with unpaved surfaces, blind curves, steep embankments, adjacent waterways, or similar hazards.
B. The deploying officer should select a location to deploy the Stop Sticks with the following considerations:
1. Does the location allow the deploying officer to see the approach of the fleeing vehicle and officers?
2. Is there physical protection for the deploying officer (i.e., utility pole, hydrant, guardrail, etc.)?
3. Will the pursued vehicle have room to drive around, turn off, or otherwise avoid the Stop Sticks? The pursued vehicle may be funneled toward the
Stop Sticks, but DO NOT block the roadway completely.
C. The deploying officer must communicate to other units the location of the Stop Stick deployment, whether the suspect vehicle strikes the Stop
Sticks, and when the roadway is cleared.
D. If oncoming traffic exists, it should be stopped or diverted at a safe distance from the deployment location.
E. Actual deployment may be accomplished by tossing the Stop Sticks out, or pulling them into the path of the pursued vehicle. The cord will then be
used to pull the Stop Sticks out of the roadway.
F. Officer safety must not be compromised. DO NOT wrap the cord around any body part. DO NOT stand where the pursued vehicle or police vehicles may
swerve to avoid the stop sticks, your police car, or other obstacle and strike you.
G. Pursuing officers must back off from the suspect vehicle when approaching the deployment location to give the deploying officer time to remove the
Stop Sticks from the roadway.
H. Other patrol units may be utilized to block off side streets in an effort to channel the suspect toward the Stop Stick location.
IV. MAINTENANCE
A. Prior to the start of each shift, officers shall inspect the Stop Sticks to insure they are properly installed in their rack and not damaged from
prior use or misuse. A sworn supervisor will be notified if damaged Stop Sticks are found. All Stop Sticks damaged due to non-pursuit incidents will
be turned in to property control and a memorandum will be submitted to the division commander explaining the circumstances.
B. Stop Sticks actually used and damaged in a pursuit will be submitted to property control with a copy of the Pursuit Report Form. This form will be
used as the required documentation to the company for free replacement of used stop sticks.
C. Stop Sticks that get wet, but otherwise are undamaged, must be thoroughly dried prior to replacing them in the mounting rack.
F:\COMMON\SOP\DIRECTIVES\4.04 Tire Deflation Devices.wpd
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FernandoMCP
Officer
Posts: 12
Registered: 6-1-2007
Location: Rockville, MD
Member Is Offline
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posted on 21-3-2008 at 23:41
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Montgomery County MD
VEHICULAR PURSUITS
FC No.: 135 Date: 06-11-03
Contents:
I. Policy
II. Definitions
III. Authorized Reasons to Pursue
IV. Safety
V. Approval to Continue
VI. Terminating
VII. Driving Procedures
VIII. Use of Roadblocks
IX. Use of Tire-Deflating Devices
X. Pursuits from Montgomery County into Other Jurisdictions
XI. Pursuits Discontinued at the County Line
XII. Joining Pursuits Initiated by Other Agencies/ Jurisdictions
XIII. Officer Discretion
XIV. Reporting Procedures
XV. Proponent Unit
XVI. Cancellation
Appendix A: MCP 610, “Motor Vehicle Pursuit Report”
I. Policy
This policy is designed to protect officers of this department and the public from the hazards of high-speed pursuits and to provide legal and
departmental guidelines for the benefit of officers. Maryland law does not relieve the operator of an emergency vehicle from driving with due regard
for the safety of all people. The operator may be held liable for negligence. Supervisors and duty commanders will take immediate control of
pursuits in progress to ensure adherence to state law/departmental regulations. All sworn officers and ECC personnel will receive periodic training
on the policies and guidelines in this directive.
II. Definitions
A. Vehicular Pursuit: An active attempt by an officer in a vehicle to apprehend an occupant of a moving motor vehicle who exhibits a clear intention
to avoid apprehension by:
1. Maintaining elevated speed.
2. Increasing speed.
3. Using evasive tactics.
This does not include a driver who is maintaining a safe and legal speed and following all rules of the road but fails to stop at police direction.
Additionally, officers should be reasonably certain that the fleeing driver knows of their presence.
B. Emergency Vehicle: Defined in Sections 11-118 and 21-106 of the Maryland Transportation Article.
C. Supervisor: Team, shift, or unit supervisor (sworn) responsible for the direction of officers.
D. PMARS: Police Mutual Aid Radio System; a radio system providing direct agency-to-agency communications. (CALEA 81.2.10)
E. MARNIS: Mutual Aid Radio Network Interface System; a radio-patching link between units of two or more agencies through their radio systems.
F. Felony of a Violent Type: A felony that involves the infliction or threatened infliction of serious physical injury or death.
G. Serious Physical Injury: Injury that:
1. Creates a substantial risk of death.
2. Causes serious permanent or serious protracted disfigurement.
3. Causes serious permanent or serious protracted loss of the function of any bodily member or organ.
III. Authorized Reasons to Pursue
Pursuit of a vehicle is authorized only when the offense for which the suspect is being pursued is one of the following: (CALEA 41.2.2.a)
1. Felony, or the officer has reason to believe a felony has occurred or is occurring.
Note: Hit-and-run, personal injury collision when the officer has reasonable cause to believe serious physical injury has occurred is a felony.
2. Driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.
NOTE: 2nd Degree Assault on a police officer (misdemeanor) is no longer a pursuable offense.
The traffic charge of fleeing and eluding the police continues to be a non-pursuable offense.
IV. Safety
Deciding to pursue is a process of weighing the hazards of the pursuit against the hazards created by the violator; good judgment in weighing these
risks is essential. The seriousness of the offense involved does not lessen the officer’s liability and/or duty to all people, including fellow
officers and himself, to drive with due regard for the safety of all. Senior officers who are passengers in pursuing vehicles will be held
responsible as well as the operators of the vehicles. (CALEA 41.2.2.b)
V. Approval to Continue
A. Except for pursuits for felonies of a violent type, the officer must receive immediate approval from a supervisor to continue the pursuit, based on
the following information:
1. The reason for the pursuit
2. The seriousness of the crime; and
3. Safety concerns, to include:
a. Location of the pursuit
b. Time of day
c. Amount of vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the area
d. Weather conditions
e. Condition of the road surface
f. Speed of the pursuit, etc.
B. When notified of a pursuit, ECC will:
1. Attempt to notify a supervisor from the district the pursuit is occurring in.
a. The supervisor will either approve or call off the pursuit based on the criteria above.
b. If ECC is unable to raise a supervisor, they will advise the officer that a supervisor could not be contacted.
c. The officer must acknowledge this message and terminate the pursuit (except for a felony of a violent type).
2. Notify Car10 of the pursuit.
VI. Terminating (CALEA 41.2.2.h)
A. Danger to Officer and Public
Pursuits will be terminated when the officer believes that the dangers to officers and the public outweigh the advisability of continuing.
B. Supervisor Responsibility
When, in the supervisor’s judgment, the dangers outweigh the advisability of continuing, the supervisor shall direct the discontinuance of the
pursuit (refer to section V.A). (CALEA 41.2.2.f)
C. Outside Factors in a Pursuit
Pursuits will be terminated regardless of the seriousness of the crime when weather, traffic, road conditions, or locale make further pursuit
unreasonably hazardous, or when the distance from the pursued vehicle is too great to justify continuing the pursuit.
D. Operator Identity is Known
Pursuits will be terminated when the identity of the operator is known and the offense is an authorized misdemeanor.
VII. Driving Procedures
A. Speed
Officers will not, under any circumstances, pursue at a speed so great as to render their vehicles uncontrollable. (CALEA 41.2.2.b)
B. Radio Communication
When a vehicle attempts to elude an officer or drives in a manner endangering others, the pursuing officer shall start and maintain communication
with the dispatcher, including identifying the unit, location, direction of travel, license number and description of the vehicle, and the charges
against the violator.
C. ECC Responsibility
ECC dispatchers will ensure that the channel remains open by putting a 10-3 in effect.
D. Helicopter Assistance
At the request of a supervisor, ECC will request helicopter assistance, if available.
E. Emergency Equipment
Emergency equipment will be used throughout a pursuit.
F. Other Units Involved
1. Once an officer announces a pursuit is in progress, units in the area should position themselves at locations thought to be helpful in the
apprehension and shall notify the dispatcher of their locations.
2. Only two police vehicles will be actively engaged in the pursuit unless a supervisor, based on the following, authorizes more units: (CALEA
41.2.2.a)
a. Seriousness of the charge
b. Number of suspects in the pursued vehicle
c. Known weapons in suspect’s possession
d. Increased hazards caused by numerous pursuit vehicles
K-9 units are not included in the two car limit.
3. Police supervisors will not permit distant units to “strip” a beat of coverage or converge on the scene once the stop is made. Vehicles committed
to the pursuit, either actively or in a support role, should be of a sufficient number to provide protection for officers in the event that the
offender(s) should stop or attempt escape on foot. (CALEA 41.2.2.c, 41.2.2.f)
G. Units with Non-Police Passengers
Units that have people other than law enforcement officers in the vehicle will not become engaged in pursuit situations.
H. Unmarked Police Vehicles
An operator of an unmarked police vehicle with emergency equipment (a minimum of department-authorized and -installed four corner strobes, a dash
light, and a siren) may initiate a pursuit for the same criteria as marked police vehicles. Due to the increased danger created by the less visible
unmarked units, officers operating unmarked cruisers during a pursuit will withdraw at the earliest possible time. Whenever two or more marked police
vehicles become engaged in the pursuit, the unmarked vehicle will withdraw from active pursuit and serve in a support role unless authorized by a
supervisor to continue in the pursuit. (CALEA 41.2.2.d)
NOTE: Unmarked vehicles that are equipped with only emergency lights (no four corner strobes) and siren can initiate a pursuit only in the instance
of a violent felony. Withdrawal from the pursuit will be based on the guidelines above.
I. Driving on One-Way Streets
Officers are discouraged from driving their vehicles the wrong way on a one-way street or highway, unless absolutely necessary.
VIII. Use of Roadblocks (CALEA 41.2.2.g, 61.3.4)
A. Rolling Roadblocks
The use of rolling roadblocks is prohibited. A rolling roadblock is designed to stop a violator’s vehicle by surrounding it with pursuit vehicles
and intentionally slowing all vehicles to a stop.
B. Stationary Roadblock
A stationary roadblock is the use of department vehicles strategically placed or situated to stop or slow down a pursued vehicle in the safest
possible manner. The hazards to the public, other officers, and the suspect must be considered. Only department vehicles are to be used. At least
one of the vehicles used will be a marked police vehicle.
1. Use roadblocks only when the officer has probable cause to believe the crime committed was a felony of a violent type.
(The offense of DWI is no longer a valid reason to use a roadblock.)
2. Before a roadblock is used, a supervisor must grant permission. The effectiveness and dangers (e.g., highly populated areas, heavily traveled
roadways, etc.) will be weighed when considering authorization. (CALEA 41.2.2.f)
3. No officer will remain in the vehicle after it is stationed as part of a roadblock.
4. All officers involved in a roadblock will take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of all bystanders and fellow officers.
C. “Takedowns”
This directive is not intended to prohibit the procedure of “takedowns” by covert units who use this technique in non-pursuit situations to box in
and apprehend criminal suspects.
D. Ramming (CALEA 41.2.2.g)
Ramming, the intentional striking of a suspect’s vehicle, is prohibited.
IX. Use of Tire-Deflating Devices
A The department currently has two approved tire-deflating devices. The Stop Stick is used to stop a pursuit. The Piranha is used to prevent a
pursuit from occurring.
B. Only those volunteer officers successfully trained in the use of the tire-deflating devices will be issued or authorized to deploy the approved
devices.
C. Stop Sticks will only be utilized in authorized pursuit situations.
D. The deploying officer, after considering the safety risks present at the time, will receive permission from a supervisor prior to deploying a
tire-deflating device. The decision will be based on, but not limited to, the information in section IV.B in addition to the following:
1. Tactical considerations.
2. Any information provided by the pursuing officer(s).
E. Tire-deflating devices will only be deployed on four-wheeled vehicles. Its use is prohibited on two-wheeled vehicles (i.e., motorcycle, bicycle,
moped) or on any ATV, three- or four-wheeled.
F. Action should be taken when possible to divert other traffic from the area where a tire-deflating device is to be used to prevent damage to other
vehicles.
G. The exact location of the deployed Stop Stick, to include the direction and lane, will be communicated to ECC and all pursuing vehicles.
H. When a Stop Stick has been placed in the roadway, the deploying officer’s police vehicle may be used to block a portion of the roadway prior to the
Stop Stick; however the entire roadway will not be blocked with the police vehicle. The deploying officer and the vehicle should be positioned in
such a manner that it will afford the officer protection from the vehicle being pursued. The police vehicle will not be occupied. The deploying
officer shall immediately remove the Stop Stick from the roadway after it is struck or the pursued vehicle passes by.
I. The tire-deflating device is not intended to be used as a hand weapon.
J. Once the Stop Stick has been struck, it shall be returned to the Central Supply, along with a copy of the MCP 610. Supply will send it back to the
manufacturer for repair/ replacement.
K. The Stop Sticks that are issued are maintenance-free and will be kept in marked patrol vehicles. They will be stored in vehicle trunk lid trays
that may only be installed by Equipment Management Division. Officers will ensure that items loaded in the trunk will not damage the Stop Sticks.
L. The Piranha will be stored in covert police vehicles where they will not be damaged but will be readily available for deployment.
X. Pursuits from Montgomery County into Other Jurisdictions (CALEA 41.2.2.i)
A. Hazards
When engaged in pursuit of a fleeing suspect across jurisdictional lines (county or state), officers face the hazards of unfamiliarity with the area
and decreased communications capability.
B. Authorized Reasons for a Pursuit
Officers may pursue into a neighboring jurisdiction only when an officer has probable cause to believe the crime committed was a felony of a violent
type.
C. Arrests Outside of Montgomery County
Officers may arrest an individual after a legal pursuit out of the county.
1. If the arrest occurs within Maryland, officers will retain custody of the individual unless the jurisdiction entered places charges of its own.
2. If the arrest occurs outside of Maryland, officers will relinquish the individual to the law enforcement agency of the entered jurisdiction. In
this situation, custody of the individual should be processed through extradition procedures.
D. Misdemeanors
The pursuit of misdemeanor suspects into another county, state, or the District of Columbia will not be allowed under any circumstances.
E. Vehicle Use in Foreign Jurisdictions
All emergency equipment will be activated while pursuing outside of the county. No more than two vehicles will cross into a foreign jurisdiction
unless authorized by a supervisor. As soon as practicable, relinquish the pursuit to the entered jurisdiction with the units from the initiating
jurisdiction continuing in response. Vehicles will be operated with due regard for road conditions and public safety. The pursuit will be abandoned
if elements such as weather, road, and traffic conditions make further pursuit unduly hazardous.
F. Communications
ECC personnel will initiate a PMARS link with the entered jurisdiction to coordinate the response. Communications between pursuing units and units
from the entered jurisdiction can be established with the use of a MARNIS patch if requested by the pursuit units and time allows. (CALEA 41.2.2.e)
XI. Pursuits Discontinued at the County Line
A. “Surveillance Mode” Prohibited
If a pursuit is discontinued at the county line, further use of a police vehicle in a “surveillance mode” outside of the county is prohibited. This
does not prohibit unmarked vehicles from conducting authorized surveillances in foreign jurisdictions during non-pursuit situations.
B. Notification to Other Jurisdiction
When the fleeing vehicle is engaged in a continuing crime (e.g., DWI, continuing felony theft), officers will transmit a description of the
suspect/vehicle, the charge(s), and direction of travel to ECC personnel. ECC will relay the information to the jurisdiction entered.
XII. Joining Pursuits Initiated by Other Agencies/Jurisdictions (CALEA 41.2.2.i)
When there is a pursuit in the county that was initiated by another agency, including pursuits that enter the county from another jurisdiction, ECC
will advise the patrol supervisor of the pursuit. The supervisor will determine if MCP officers are to join the pursuit based on the following:
1. The pursuing agency notifies MCP of the offense for which the suspect is wanted, and
2. The offense meets the criteria for pursuits within the boundaries of Montgomery County (see section IV.A).
If the above criteria are NOT met, MCP officers will NOT join in the pursuit. ECC will monitor the pursuit and inform MCP officers of the location
of the other agency’s unit(s). MCP officers should position themselves to ensure sufficient backup to the pursuing unit(s) should the suspect(s) bail
out, wreck, attack the pursuing officer(s), etc., while in the county.
XIII. Officer Discretion
In certain circumstances which threaten life and when there is no time for an officer to comply with a departmental directive, the officer will
assess to the best of the officer’s ability the safety factors involved and then take whatever action the officer believes necessary.
XIV. Reporting Procedures (CALEA 41.2.2.f, 41.2.2.j)
A. Supervisor Responsibility
For each pursuit involving officers from the department, a supervisor (not to be delegated) from the district where the pursuit initiated will
document the circumstances on an MCP 610, “Motor Vehicle Pursuit Report.” The MCP 610 will list all vehicles involved. The supervisor will forward
the MCP 610, through the chain of command, to the respective assistant chief. This will be completed prior to the end of the supervisor’s tour of
duty.
NOTE: If the supervisor participated in the pursuit, the supervisor’s lieutenant will complete the “Supervisor’s Supplementary Narrative” section of
the MCP 610.
B. Reporting the Use of Stop Sticks
Use of the Stop Stick, including whether it was successful or not, will be indicated under “E – Other” on the MCP 610. If the Stop Stick is run
over, the serial number of the stick must be noted. If damage is caused to a vehicle tire on other than the pursued vehicle, it will be documented to
include the exact make and size of the tire in an Event Report.
C. Assistant Chief Responsibility
The Assistant Chief will review the MCP 610 to ensure compliance with state law and departmental regulations and then forward it to the Staff
Inspections Section (SIS).
D. Staff Inspections Section Responsibility
Staff Inspections Section will coordinate with Training and Education Division staff on issues of officer training, when appropriate.
E. Collisions
If a collision occurs as a result of the pursuit, a copy of the MCP 610 will be included in each collision report package that is prepared. (Refer
to FC 351, “Collision Review Committee.”)
XV. Proponent Unit: FSB Administration
XVI. Cancellation
This directive cancels HQ Memorandum 01-08.
An AMATEUR, a person who practices until he gets it right. A PROFESSIONAL, a person who practices until he never gets it wrong
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