New York City Police Department (NYPD) announced a significant adjustment to its police chase policy on Wednesday (January 15), narrowing down pursuits to only major crimes and allowing pursuits for violent misdemeanors. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized that the new policy aims to balance the necessity of apprehending serious criminals and the safety of officers, reducing the risk of harm to civilians.
Tisch stated in a release, “New York City is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, our officers need clear guidance and explicit enforcement standards to determine whether a police chase should be initiated on the streets.”
“NYPD enforcement actions must not subject the public or officers to unnecessary risks, pursuits for non-violent offenses or low-level crimes can be both dangerous and unnecessary,” she added.
Tisch pointed out that advancements in modern policing technology have rendered many pursuits unnecessary, and this policy change will further improve law enforcement efficiency and public safety.
The new policy will come into effect on February 1, 2025, with related training conducted during this period, providing officers with clear guidelines on when to initiate, continue, or terminate pursuits. Additionally, the NYPD will require more detailed recording and oversight of pursuit actions to ensure compliance.
According to NYPD data, out of 2,278 police chases in 2024, 25% involved traffic accidents, property damage, or personal injury. Of these, 67% of pursuits were initiated because drivers attempted to evade traffic stops. Pursuits under such circumstances will be prohibited under the new policy.
NYPD Chief of Department John Chell stated, “Our primary goal is to protect the safety of this great city, and the new policy strikes a key balance between the necessity of pursuits and the risks involved.”
Since the end of 2022, vehicle pursuits in New York City have resulted in at least 17 deaths and over 300 injuries, as reported by The City.
The major changes in the NYPD’s vehicle pursuit policy include:
1. Pursuits limited to major and violent crimes: Officers can only initiate pursuits when dealing with major crimes or violent misdemeanors, prohibiting pursuits for traffic violations or non-violent misdemeanors.
2. Consideration of location factors: Pursuits must consider whether they occur near residential areas, schools, or playgrounds.
3. Strengthened supervisory responsibility: Supervisors must actively monitor pursuit progress, including speed, and request assistance from specialized departments when necessary.
4. Encouraging safe termination: Officers can choose to terminate pursuits if they believe it cannot be safely conducted and will not face criticism or disciplinary action for doing so.
5. Technological enhancement: Introducing new technology to improve record-keeping and ensure compliance.
6. Regular review: Monthly reviews of vehicle pursuit actions to ensure policy implementation and identify areas for improvement.
7. Enhanced training and reporting: Officers are required to undergo academy training and annual public reporting on relevant policy and implementation.
New York City Police Benevolent Association (NYCPBA) Chairman Patrick Hendry expressed support for the policy changes.
“We appreciate the NYPD leadership for listening to our concerns and providing additional clear guidance for officers on duty. However, ensuring the effective implementation of this policy is the responsibility of the NYPD to prevent unnecessary risks for officers and the public,” the union statement emphasized.