Chapter 5: Main Points Summary

Introducing Our Model Use of Force Policy Beta Release

As part of the SCRJ’s Model Use of Force Policy Beta Release, we will be posting individual chapters and accompanying explanatory materials, including main point summaries and fact sheets. Read the full Chapter 5: Foot Pursuits.

Foot pursuits are inherently dangerous police activities. Engaging in a foot pursuit can cause an adrenaline rush and also can result in fatigue, either of which may impair an officer’s judgment. Foot pursuits can cause perception problems and may result in an officer misperceiving a subject’s sudden movements as threats, even when no threat exists. 

WHEN ARE FOOT PURSUITS ALLOWED?

An officer may only initiate a foot pursuit when: (1) the officer has probable cause to believe a person violated a law or ordinance, or a reasonable, articulable suspicion that would support a legal stop; and 2) the benefit of immediately apprehending the person outweighs the risks to public and officer safety. 

Officers should consider certain risk factors when deciding to initiate a foot pursuit that may make a pursuit more dangerous and less likely to end in successful apprehension. 

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE INITIATING A FOOT PURSUIT

  • Whether the officer is acting alone
  • Whether the officer is unfamiliar with the area
  • Whether the area is hostile
  • Whether the individuals being pursued are known or suspected to be armed
  • Whether the officer will be able to obtain backup support in a timely manner
  • Whether the officer is physically able to pursue and successfully apprehend the individual
  • Whether the officer is able to establish and maintain contact with the emergency communications center
  • Inclement weather, darkness, or other reduced visibility conditions

 ADDITIONAL KEY PROVISIONS 

  • Officers may not undertake a foot pursuit based only on the observation that a person is avoiding a police presence or fleeing police. 
  • Officers are prohibited from engaging in foot pursuits if the suspected criminal activity is a citation-only offense or non-arrestable offense. 
  • Officers should consider alternatives to foot pursuits such as containment, saturation, canine search, aerial support, and/or apprehension at a later time or place if the individual’s identity is known. 
  • Officers should have their firearms holstered while running under the majority of circumstances. 

DOWNLOAD OUR CHAPTER 5 FACT SHEET.

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