Consistent with recommendations made by the D.C. Police Reform Commission, the Council must strictly limit vehicle pursuits. Although MPD’s current policy limits these tactics, its members do not follow the policy and have killed several people in recent years.
This bill would prohibit law enforcement officers from engaging in car chases unless the officer reasonably—not subjectively—believes that (1) it is necessary to protect someone from death or serious injury and (2) it will not endanger others. It would also ban certain conduct that is dangerous under all circumstances.
Status: Some limitations for vehicular pursuits passed through the Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act. Amended by temporary legislation, Law Enforcement Vehicular Pursuit Clarification Temporary Amendment Act.