high speed chase boise

High-Speed Chases in Boise: What You Need to Know

High-speed chases in Boise, Idaho, while not a daily occurrence, do happen and are usually initiated by law enforcement attempting to apprehend suspects who are fleeing in vehicles. These chases pose significant risks to officers, suspects, and the general public. Boise Police Department policies govern when and how such pursuits are conducted.

What Triggers a High-Speed Chase in Boise?

Boise Police Department officers initiate high-speed chases when a suspect in a vehicle refuses to stop and the officer believes the suspect poses an immediate threat to public safety. This can include fleeing from a violent crime, reckless driving endangering others, or evading arrest for a serious offense. Simple traffic violations generally do not warrant a high-speed chase.

Policies and Procedures Governing Pursuits

Boise Police Department has specific guidelines outlined to determine when a high-speed pursuit is justified. These guidelines typically involve a balancing act between the need to apprehend a suspect and the risk the chase poses to the public. Factors considered include:

• The severity of the crime committed or suspected.
• The potential danger the suspect poses to the community.
• Traffic conditions.
• Weather conditions.
• The performance capabilities of the pursuing vehicles.

Supervisors are often involved in monitoring and making decisions about whether to continue or terminate a pursuit.

Risks Associated with High-Speed Chases

High-speed chases inherently carry significant risks, including:

• Vehicle accidents involving officers, suspects, or innocent bystanders.
• Injuries or fatalities.
• Property damage.

Boise Police Department aims to mitigate these risks through careful assessment and adherence to established protocols. You can read about the legal aspect of this on police pursuit page.

How are High-Speed Chases Resolved?

High-speed chases can end in several ways, including:

• The suspect voluntarily surrendering.
• The suspect’s vehicle being disabled.
• The suspect crashing the vehicle.
• The police calling off the chase due to unacceptable risks.
• The suspect being apprehended after abandoning the vehicle.

Law enforcement uses various tactics to safely end pursuits, such as deploying spike strips to deflate tires or using the PIT maneuver (Pursuit Intervention Technique) to safely stop the fleeing vehicle.

FAQs about High-Speed Chases in Boise

1. How often do high-speed chases occur in Boise?

The frequency of high-speed chases in Boise varies. Statistics are usually kept internally by the Boise Police Department, but aren’t publicized regularly. They are not common occurrences, but they do happen.

2. What happens if I accidentally get caught in a high-speed chase?

If you find yourself near a high-speed chase, the best course of action is to remain calm, pull over to the side of the road if possible, and allow law enforcement to pass. Follow any instructions given by officers.

3. What are the penalties for fleeing from law enforcement in Boise?

Fleeing from law enforcement is a crime, and penalties can include jail time, fines, and driver’s license suspension. The severity of the penalties often depends on the circumstances of the pursuit and any associated charges.

4. Does the Boise Police Department use helicopters in high-speed chases?

Yes, the Boise Police Department may utilize helicopters to assist in tracking suspects during high-speed chases. This provides an aerial view and helps coordinate ground units.

5. What is the Boise Police Department’s policy on using spike strips during pursuits?

Boise Police Department officers are trained in the safe and effective deployment of spike strips to disable fleeing vehicles. Spike strips are strategically placed to deflate tires, gradually slowing the vehicle down and reducing the risk of a collision.

Summary

High-speed chases in Boise are serious events governed by strict policies and procedures aimed at balancing public safety with the need to apprehend suspects. While they are not frequent, these chases can pose risks to everyone involved. The Boise Police Department strives to resolve pursuits safely and effectively, utilizing a variety of tactics and resources while adhering to established guidelines.