Houston Police Pursuit Policy Change: Decrease in Chases, No Change in Deaths
In a recent investigation by the Houston Chronicle, it was uncovered that there had been a significant increase in police chases across the city over the past few years. Data from 2018 through 2022 showed a surge of 47% in pursuit cases during that period, resulting in 27 deaths and 700 injuries. These alarming numbers prompted the Houston police chief to implement new department policies aimed at reducing the number of chases just weeks after the report was released.
Impact of the New Policy
One year after the implementation of the new pursuit policy, investigative reporter Andrea Ball revisited the data to assess its effectiveness. The policy now prohibits officers from engaging in pursuits for minor traffic violations and misdemeanors. Officers are no longer permitted to chase after drivers for infractions like running a stop sign or red light. While exceptions are made for suspects in ongoing investigations or stolen vehicles, the overall goal was to significantly decrease the number of pursuits.
Decrease in Chases, But No Change in Fatalities
The data from the past year indicates a decrease in the number of police chases since the policy change. However, despite this reduction, the number of fatalities resulting from chases has remained constant. According to Ball, 11 people were killed in police chases over the last 11 months, compared to four deaths during the same period the previous year. This highlights the inherent dangers of high-speed pursuits, especially in residential neighborhoods or adverse road conditions.
Ball emphasized the tragic case of Carl Wiley, who was fatally struck by a driver fleeing from police in 2022. Wiley, a promising entrepreneur preparing to launch his own food truck, lost his life in a senseless chase over a minor violation. This incident underscores the devastating consequences of police pursuits gone wrong, leaving innocent civilians like Wiley caught in the crossfire.
Police Department’s Response
While the Houston Police Department is pleased with the reduction in chases following the policy change, they acknowledge the challenges faced by officers in restraining themselves from pursuing suspects. The department recognizes the importance of weighing the risks versus rewards of engaging in high-speed pursuits, especially in situations where the potential harm outweighs the benefits of apprehending a suspect.
In conclusion, the new pursuit policy in Houston has succeeded in decreasing the number of chases across the city. However, the persistent issue of fatalities resulting from police pursuits highlights the need for ongoing evaluation and refinement of pursuit protocols. By prioritizing public safety and implementing strategies to minimize the risks associated with high-speed chases, law enforcement agencies can work towards achieving a balance between upholding the law and safeguarding the community.