NYPD has announced a new policy limiting police chases to serious crimes only

New York City: The NYPD has decided to change its approach to police chases. Starting February 1, officers won’t chase drivers unless they’re wanted for serious crimes. This shift comes after a rise in dangerous high-speed crashes.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch explained that the new rules aim to protect both the public and officers. She noted that chasing suspects for minor offenses can lead to unnecessary risks.
Last year, police chases surged by nearly 600%, resulting in over one crash per day. Tragically, innocent people, like cyclist Amanda Servedio, lost their lives due to these pursuits.
In another incident, a fleeing suspect injured a cyclist in Greenwich Village. There was also a case where a man crashed while trying to escape after allegedly abducting a child.
Data shows that about 25% of police pursuits last year ended in crashes or injuries. The new policy will help reduce these dangerous situations, especially in residential areas or near schools.
Officers will now have the discretion to stop a chase if they feel it’s unsafe. The Police Benevolent Association expressed gratitude for the change, emphasizing the need for careful application of the new rules.