In a significant shift, the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) is adjusting its policy on vehicle pursuits to strike a balance between apprehending suspects and ensuring public safety. The move follows the implementation of Directive 630.05 in 2017, which imposed strict limitations on initiating pursuits. However, recent incidents have highlighted challenges, prompting a reevaluation of the existing policy.
PPB initially restricted vehicle pursuits to instances involving a reasonable suspicion of a felony person crime or a suspect’s willful disregard for public safety before a stop. However, this approach has led to an increase in suspects eluding traffic stops, engaging in dangerous driving, and, in some cases, causing severe accidents and fatalities.
While acknowledging the inherent risks of pursuits, PPB emphasizes the importance of apprehending suspects to fulfill its mission of crime reduction. The revised policy reflects a nationwide trend in law enforcement agencies adapting to evolving circumstances, aiming to address local public safety needs more effectively.
Key Policy Changes:
• Extraordinary Circumstances: The new policy defines factors for supervisors to consider when authorizing pursuits outside standard criteria, emphasizing the need for a careful evaluation of risks and benefits.
• Elimination of Speed Requirements: The update removes speed requirements, encouraging officers to make individualized decisions based on various factors, including the 4th Amendment and Directive 1010.00 Use of Force.
• Special Missions: Pursuits can now be authorized for crimes beyond felony person offenses if part of a planned mission, with detailed planning to minimize risks.
• Clarified Definitions: Definitions such as “pursuit” and “trailing” have been clarified to enhance understanding and objectivity.
As PPB rolls out these policy adjustments, officials reiterate the importance of terminating pursuits when the safety risks to the community outweigh the benefits of capturing a suspect. The changes have undergone thorough coordination with various stakeholders, including the Police Commissioner, City Attorney’s Office, Training Division, U.S. Department of Justice, and officers will receive comprehensive training to ensure adherence to the new guidelines.
