Connecticut House Bill HB05223

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/18
• Refer: 2/22/18

Caption

An Act Concerning Pursuits By Police Officers.

Impact

The bill intends to amend existing statutes in ways that will augment local police departments' accountability and operational standards during pursuits. Notably, it introduces mandatory reporting protocols for police departments when pursuits result in serious injuries or fatalities, fostering transparency. Additionally, the legislation aims to mitigate potential dangers associated with high-speed chases by limiting pursuits to specific scenarios deemed necessary for apprehending suspects of serious crimes. This could significantly change law enforcement practices and has implications for how communities perceive police actions in pursuit-related incidents.

Summary

House Bill 05223 aims to establish a uniform state-wide policy governing police pursuits. The legislation specifies under which circumstances police officers may initiate or engage in pursuits, primarily when the driver or occupant of a fleeing vehicle is suspected of a serious felony offense. It outlines the responsibilities of local police departments to align their policies with the state-wide guidelines, ensuring consistency across jurisdictions. This move is designed to enhance public safety by regulating the conditions under which pursuits can occur and enabling departments to better manage high-risk situations associated with vehicle chases.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 05223 is likely to focus on the balance between public safety interests and the rights of individuals being pursued. Critics may argue that the bill could lead to overly cautious police practices that may hinder effective law enforcement when immediate action is required. Conversely, proponents highlight the importance of mitigating unnecessary risks associated with vehicle pursuits, which can put both law enforcement and the public at risk. Concerns about accountability and the potential for excessive force may also arise, with advocates calling for local departments to adhere strictly to the new state-wide policies.