Starting June 6, law enforcement officers in Washington state will have expanded authority to pursue fleeing suspects under a new law. Initiative 2113 restores the ability to initiate pursuits based on reasonable suspicion of a legal violation, a change from the current restrictions.
Under existing rules, pursuits can only be initiated if there is reasonable suspicion that an individual in the vehicle is involved in a violent offense, sex offense, vehicular assault, domestic violence offense, escape, or driving under the influence.
Sgt. Darren Moss of the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department clarified that the new law will not result in pursuits for minor offenses like shoplifting. However, he warned car thieves and those engaging in dangerous activities, such as the TikTok Kia Boyz, that they will be targeted.
“Unfortunately for you guys stealing cars, ramming them into businesses, committing all these burglaries, yes, we are going to be chasing you because at 3 a.m. when nobody is on the road, it’s going to be reasonable, and we’re going to catch you,” Sgt. Moss stated.
The primary aim of the new law is to address the record high number of roadway fatalities by deterring reckless behavior that endangers public safety. Sgt. Moss emphasized that deputies will weigh the risks and benefits before deciding to initiate a pursuit.
“As long as it’s a felony and something that creates a danger to the public, our deputies are going to do the math in their head and decide, ‘Is this enough, is this worthwhile for us to chase or not?’” he explained.
While supporters argue that the law will help curb dangerous criminal behavior, critics warn that pursuits can endanger civilians. Each law enforcement agency will have the discretion to set its own policies for pursuits. For instance, Seattle will maintain more restrictive rules, meaning the impact of the law will vary by location.
“We’re still going to monitor it. We’re going to terminate when we need to. We’re not going to chase at rush hour. We’re not going to chase through school zones unless it’s extremely dangerous like a homicide suspect,” said Sgt. Moss.
Recent incidents highlight the need for the new law. On May 26, a large group of street racers gathered at a warehouse on 176th St and 51st Ave E in Pierce County. The event involved burnouts, racing, and other hazardous activities. When deputies responded, the group fled recklessly. Three individuals were arrested, including one man caught speeding over 100 mph. The vehicles involved were impounded, and the offenders were processed using the sheriff’s department’s new mobile booking vehicle.
“When our deputies see you acting a fool, driving impaired, or blocking our roadways, they will take action. Your vehicle will be impounded, and you will go to jail,” Sgt. Moss warned.
As Washington state prepares for the new law to take effect, law enforcement agencies will adapt their policies to balance public safety with the necessity of pursuits.