Police Pursuit Procedures

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary objective of a police pursuit?

To demonstrate police authority and deter future offenses.

To engage in a high speed chase to maximize chances of apprehension.

To apprehend the violator at all costs.

To apprehend the violator while minimizing risk to officers and others. (correct)

When should a police pursuit be terminated?

When the officer's vehicle sustains minor damage.

When the officer loses sight of the vehicle.

When the risk of injury and accident outweighs the benefits of apprehension. (correct)

When the suspect enters a heavily populated area.

Under what circumstances should law enforcement stake out an unoccupied stolen vehicle?

When they have already identified a suspect who will eventually come back.

Under no circumstances should law enforcement stake out an unoccupied stolen vehicle. (correct)

When there is a high probability that a suspect will return to the vehicle.

When they need to obtain or improve probable cause for an arrest.

What is the definition of an 'Authorized Emergency Vehicle'?

Any police vehicle that has emergency lights and siren in operation while pursuing a suspected law violator. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Due Regard' refer to in the context of police vehicle pursuits?

The consideration of existing circumstances to determine if one’s actions are valid as they relate to existing or potential hazards. Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of 'Emergency Status' for a police vehicle?

A police vehicle operating with both emergency lights and siren activated simultaneously. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes 'Failure to Yield' in the context of the provided document?

A driver failing to stop their vehicle after being given a visual/audible signal by law enforcement. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes an 'Emergency', according to the provided text?

A situation in which there is a high probability of death or personal injury to an individual, or of the loss or destruction of property. Signup and view all the answers

What action should a primary pursuit unit take when a helicopter assumes control of a pursuit?

Cease emergency operations, reduce speed, and terminate visual contact with the suspect vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of a secondary unit that joins a pursuit?

To assume responsibility for radio communications between the dispatch center and pursuing units. Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance is a secondary unit allowed to pass the primary pursuit vehicle?

Only if requested to do so. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key role of other support units during a vehicle pursuit?

To cover possible routes and warn traffic of the approaching pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

If a support unit inadvertently intercepts a suspect vehicle, what should they do?

Attempt to obtain additional vehicle and occupant information. Signup and view all the answers

When should aircraft support be considered during a vehicle pursuit?

To monitor and direct a prolonged vehicle pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for requesting aircraft support for a pursuit?

A Department supervisor. Signup and view all the answers

Upon arrival, what is one of the primary duties of aircraft personnel during a vehicle pursuit?

To assume primary radio responsibilities when visual contact of the suspect vehicle is made. Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a specific responsibility of flight crew during a vehicle pursuit?

Initiate a Code Red with communications personnel. Signup and view all the answers

What is the first action that communications personnel take when notified of a pursuit?

Advise the primary pursuit officer’s field supervisor of essential information. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of initiating a “Code Red” during a pursuit?

To clear radio channels of all non-emergency calls. Signup and view all the answers

What should communications personnel do with dispatch tape recordings related to a pursuit?

Transfer them to the field supervisor or officer-in-charge within five working days. Signup and view all the answers

During a vehicle pursuit, what must communications personnel do regarding a police helicopter?

Request and dispatch the helicopter at the request of a supervisor. Signup and view all the answers

When should communications personnel notify neighboring jurisdictions related to a vehicle pursuit?

When the pursuit may extend into their locality. Signup and view all the answers

When should communications notify the Traffic Supervisor and the Traffic Engineer about a pursuit?

Whenever a pursuit results in property damage, injury, or death. Signup and view all the answers

Under what specific circumstance may sworn personnel in unmarked vehicles initiate a pursuit?

When the fleeing vehicle represents an immediate threat to life. Signup and view all the answers

What type of vehicle is explicitly prohibited from engaging in a pursuit?

A vehicle lacking a siren and authorized emergency lights. Signup and view all the answers

When should an officer in an unmarked vehicle relinquish the primary pursuit position?

When a marked standard Department vehicle becomes available to take over. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of an unmarked vehicle after relinquishing the primary pursuit position?

To serve in a support function for the marked vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

Who should relinquish the primary pursuit position to a standard marked patrol unit?

Supervisors who are the initiating unit. Signup and view all the answers

When does the primary pursuit unit transition into a secondary unit?

When air surveillance occurs or another unit is assigned primary. Signup and view all the answers

What is specifically prohibited during a pursuit?

"Code 3" caravanning or paralleling of units without authorization. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'slack pursuit'?

Intentionally allowing distance to occur between the pursuing and suspect vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

When are roadblocks and ramming tactics authorized?

Only when the use of deadly force is justified. Signup and view all the answers

According to the information, when may an officer discharge a firearm at a moving vehicle?

If the vehicle is used to threaten an officer with deadly force or the vehicle operation is designed to strike and harm an officer or others. Signup and view all the answers

What action must a pursuit unit take if it sustains moderate or substantial vehicular damage during a pursuit?

Notify communications to have another unit assigned and withdraw from the pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for controlling pursuit tactics until a supervisor assumes control?

The initiating unit's senior officer. Signup and view all the answers

What are the responsibilities of the initiating officer engaging in a pursuit?

To notify communications with specific details and re-evaluate the pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

What could happen if an initiating officer fails to provide pursuit information to communications?

The pursuit could be immediately terminated by a Supervisor. Signup and view all the answers

Besides broadcasting the progress of the pursuit, what additional action must the primary unit perform?

Constantly re-evaluate conditions & discontinue the pursuit if the dangers outweigh the need to apprehend the suspect. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these best describes 'Forcible Stop' as defined in the provided material?

The use of physical force, including firearms, roadblocks, and ramming, to end a pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the 'Initiating Pursuit Unit'?

The officer operating the vehicle that first tries to stop the fleeing vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

According to the information, under what condition is a pursuit defined?

When a law enforcement officer is attempting to apprehend a suspect in a vehicle who is attempting to evade the officer. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Reasonable Care' mean in the context of police pursuits?

The standard of care a prudent officer would exercise in similar circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of 'Secondary Pursuit Unit'?

The unit that is actively participating in the pursuit immediately following the primary unit. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a 'Slack Pursuit'?

To create a gap between the police vehicle and the suspect vehicle to encourage the suspect to slow down. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Termination of Pursuit' mean?

Ending a pursuit due to the suspect stopping, officers stopping the vehicle, or by the officer or supervisor ceasing the pursuit. Signup and view all the answers

What should be the main consideration when deciding whether to initiate a pursuit?

The immediate danger of a pursuit versus the danger to the public should the suspect remain at large. Signup and view all the answers

When are officers permitted to pursue a suspect that refuses to stop

Whenever the suspect refuses to stop when properly directed to do so. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical factor that officers should consider before initiating a pursuit?

The seriousness of the offense and environmental conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What type of driving behavior is explicitly prohibited during a pursuit?

Driving the wrong way on a freeway or divided highway. Signup and view all the answers

What is an officer required to do to clearly indicate their intent to stop a vehicle?

Employ both overhead lights and siren. Signup and view all the answers

In what way are officers expected to drive while involved in a pursuit?

In accordance with applicable traffic laws to avoid reckless disregard for the safety of others. Signup and view all the answers

Under what specific conditions are more units allowed to join an ongoing pursuit?

When the primary unit requests additional support from their field supervisor under extraordinary circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

Which civilian occupant is NOT permitted in a police vehicle while the officer is engaged in a pursuit?

All of the above. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for the final decision to continue or terminate a pursuit when a supervisor is involved in the pursuit?

A non-involved supervisor, regardless of rank. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the field supervisor regarding pursuit tactics?

To continuously review incoming data to determine if the pursuit should continue or terminate. Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstance should a pursuit be discontinued when leaving the jurisdiction?

When there is no immediate danger to life, and the field supervisor has not approved it. Signup and view all the answers

When a pursuit extends into another jurisdiction, what factors should be considered when determining if the other jurisdiction should assume the pursuit?

The distance and speed involved, and the pursuing officer’s familiarity with the area. Signup and view all the answers

Besides the field supervisor, who else is responsible for ensuring the pursuit is conducted according to department policies and procedures?

The watch commander. Signup and view all the answers

What action is required regarding the communications tape after a pursuit, completed or terminated?

The original tape must be forwarded to the Assistant Chief of Police. Signup and view all the answers

Who is authorized to approve additional back-up vehicles to assist the primary and back-up units during a pursuit?

The field supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What should officers do when following a pursuit on parallel streets?

They must first obtain supervisor authorization and it be done without unreasonable risk. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with pursuing vehicles if they are stressed during a pursuit?

Pull them off-line for a safety check. Signup and view all the answers

What action is to be taken in a pursuit when the necessity for apprehension is outweighed by the dangers of the pursuit?

The pursuit must be terminated. Signup and view all the answers

What is required of all units involved in a pursuit regarding radio channels?

They must operate on the same radio channel. Signup and view all the answers

When pursuing into another jurisdiction, what information is required when making notification?

The location and direction of the pursuit, the nature of the offense, and the type of assistance being requested, if any. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for coordinating the pursuit?

The field supervisor Signup and view all the answers

What should officers use when taking a suspect into custody after the vehicle has been stopped?

The level of force that is reasonable and necessary to secure the suspect. Signup and view all the answers

What must the pursuing officer do when it is likely the pursuit will leave the jurisdiction?

Notify communications who then will notify the relevant agency. Signup and view all the answers

When considering whether to relinquish a pursuit to another jurisdiction, what is a critical factor to assess?

The other jurisdiction's willingness and capability to take over the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

If another jurisdiction declines to take over a pursuit, who makes the decision to continue or terminate the pursuit?

The supervisor Signup and view all the answers

Following a pursuit assumed by another jurisdiction, what action should the initial officer and supervisor take if reasonable?

Proceed to the termination point at legal speeds to provide support and information Signup and view all the answers

What should the field supervisor prepare after all pursuits?

A detailed report and analysis of all pursuits through EIS/IAPro Signup and view all the answers

When does participation by this jurisdiction become appropriate in an allied agency's pursuit?

Only after a specific request for participation Signup and view all the answers

If an allied agency pursuit enters this jurisdiction, what is the default responsibility for the conduct of the pursuit?

The allied agency maintains responsibility Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions can an officer from this agency assist a lone pursuing officer from another jurisdiction?

When a supervisor considers it necessary, and as a secondary unit only Signup and view all the answers

When should officers discontinue their role in a pursuit when assisting as a secondary unit from another agency?

When an additional unit from the originating agency joins the pursuit, or the pursuit deviates from agency standards Signup and view all the answers

According to the procedures, when will officers of this agency hold a primary position in a pursuit related to another agency?

Only when the other agency does not have fuel or is not able to continue pursuit Signup and view all the answers

Who is primarily responsible for controlling this Department's role in a pursuit involving an external agency?

The on-duty field supervisor Signup and view all the answers

Under what condition should a pursuit always be immediately terminated?

When the suspect’s identity is known and there is no immediate threat to the safety of human life Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial action to take when a primary officer loses visual contact with a suspect during a pursuit?

Immediately terminate the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What specific action is not authorized following the termination of a pursuit?

Following the vehicle after terminating the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

Following a pursuit, when should the field supervisor review the reports for accuracy and policy compliance?

As soon as possible after the pursuit Signup and view all the answers

When is it required to submit supplemental reports related to a pursuit?

In every instance, whether the pursuit is completed or terminated Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following documents is NOT typically included in a critique of a significant pursuit?

Vehicle maintenance logs Signup and view all the answers

According to the procedure manual, what is the primary purpose of a formal debriefing after a significant pursuit?

To evaluate areas of the event needing review, such as training and tactics Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of a 'Foot Pursuit' according to the document?

The physical attempt by an officer to detain a person fleeing on foot Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided text, who is considered to initiate a pursuit?

The violator Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a factor an officer should consider when deciding whether to initiate a pursuit?

Availability of personal protective equipment Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary officer's responsibility after initiating a foot pursuit?

To immediately notify communications and coordinate with secondary units Signup and view all the answers

If a violator enters a building during a foot pursuit, what action should the primary officer take?

Radio location, stand by outside and wait for secondary units Signup and view all the answers

When may a supervisor order a foot pursuit to be terminated?

If danger to officers or public outweighs need for immediate apprehension Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a responsibility of the supervisor during a foot pursuit?

Directing additional units to the area of pursuit Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'TEAM Concept' refer to in the context of foot pursuits?

Two or more officers working together to apprehend a fleeing person Signup and view all the answers

During a foot pursuit, what is the responsibility of communications personnel regarding radio channels?

To clear radio channels of all non-emergency calls and control communications Signup and view all the answers

What information must the primary officer provide to communications when initiating a pursuit?

The reason for the pursuit, direction of travel, and violator description Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided text, under what circumstance should a foot pursuit NOT be terminated?

When the violator's identity is established, and there is an immediate public threat Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary reason for using the Stop Stick device?

To allow a vehicle to be brought safely to a stop through controlled tire deflation. Signup and view all the answers

According to the document, when is a police officer authorized to pursue?

When the officer believes the violator has committed a violation that allows for detainment, or poses an immediate threat Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do immediately after deploying a Stop Stick?

Move to a position of safety which may offer physical protection and concealment. Signup and view all the answers

When should the supervisor ensure the dispatch tape is recorded and the pursuit entered into IA PRO?

For all pursuits, to ensure proper documentation Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect to consider in a pursuit regarding the officer initiating it?

The degree of risk to which the officer exposes themselves and others Signup and view all the answers

When is Stop Stick deployment NOT authorized, according to the document?

When pursuing a motorcycle or other two wheeled vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of a supervisor related to Stop Stick deployments, according to the provided text?

To ensure analysis, and complete the Stop Stick form and ensure replacement. Signup and view all the answers

What should a pursuing officer do immediately after terminating a foot pursuit?

Notify communications of the termination and their location. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a reason for an officer to terminate a foot pursuit?

If the officer loses possession of their weapon. Signup and view all the answers

According to the guidelines, what kind of contact should the deploying officer make with their supervisor, related to Stop Sticks?

The officer is responsible for obtaining permission from the supervisor before using a Stop Stick. Signup and view all the answers

When should a jurisdiction be notified of a foot pursuit, according to the provided guidelines?

As soon as the pursuit may extend into their locality. Signup and view all the answers

What action does the deploying officer have to take immediately after the vehicle has passed over the Stop Sticks?

To immediately retract the device to prevent damage. Signup and view all the answers

If a Department vehicle is damaged during a Stop Stick deployment, what action should be taken?

The officer responsible for the vehicle must notify a supervisor and document the incident. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Stop Stick Pursuit Reporting Form?

To ensure warranty replacement of the device. Signup and view all the answers

What should an officer do if they lose contact with communications during a foot pursuit?

Terminate the foot pursuit, and notify dispatch once contact is re-established. Signup and view all the answers

During a pursuit, when should an officer NOT participate in another agency's pursuit?

Unless requested by the other agency and their own supervisor. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vehicle Pursuits - Objectives and Restrictions

Objective: Apprehend violator without endangering officers or others.
Collision Risk: Weighing collision risk against offense severity. Pursuit terminated when risk outweighs benefit.
No "Staking Out": Deliberately surveying unoccupied stolen vehicles is prohibited. This applies to any vehicle where suspects might flee.
Authorized Emergency Vehicles: Police vehicles with emergency lights and siren activated during emergency response or pursuit.

Definitions

Due Regard: Considering existing circumstances relative to potential hazards.
Emergency: Situations involving potential death, injury, or property loss, where police action may mitigate.
Emergency Status: Police vehicle operating with both emergency lights and siren simultaneously.
Failure to Yield: Driver failing to stop despite a clear visual/audible police signal, without intent to flee.
Forcible Stop: Stopping a pursuit using force (firearms, roadblocks, ramming, tire deflation devices).

Initiation of Pursuit

Initiation Criteria: Immediate danger to officers/public less than danger of suspect remaining at large. Justifiable cause for immediate apprehension.
Pursuit Justification: Suspect intending to avoid apprehension. Suspect presenting danger to life or causing serious injury.
Considerations: Offense seriousness, road/weather conditions, population density, vehicle capabilities, other occupants, officer's communication capability, alternatives to pursuit.
Restrictions: No pursuits on freeways/divided highways (except with supervisor approval), use both lights and siren to indicate intent to stop.

Pursuit Operations

Traffic Laws Compliance: All operations conducted in accordance with traffic laws.
Emergency Lights/Siren Activation: Lights and siren activated during pursuit.
Secondary Unit: Support unit may request more units in extraordinary circumstances, but "Code 3 caravanning" is prohibited.
Slack Pursuit: Pursuing officer intentionally allowing distance for suspect to slow down, potentially reducing danger.
Roadblocks and Ramming: Last resort tactics only when suspect's continued movement poses imminent danger. Specific conditions must be met before deploying.
Deadly Force: Should be limited, firearms not discharged at a moving vehicle unless specific conditions are met.

Pursuit Unit Roles

Initiating/Primary Unit: Controls pursuit tactics, notifies communications with relevant details, and re-evaluates conditions during pursuit.
Secondary Unit: Maintains radio contact with communications for primary unit, follows at safe distance, assists with primary unit if necessary, supports foot pursuits once termination.
Support Units: Stay back, warn traffic, may assume secondary/primary roles if needed, and gather additional suspect information if intercept.
Aircraft Support: Use available aircraft for surveillance, communication, and directing pursuit.

Communication Responsibilities

Pursuit Reporting: Essential information: unit identification, location/speed/direction of suspect vehicle, vehicle description, no. of occupants, reason for stop, justification of pursuit, details about pursuit or suspect.
Communications: Immediately advising field supervisor, and designated supervisory personnel.
Radio Control: "Code Red" initiation and control to avoid non-emergency calls interference. Information checks on pursuit subject.

Field Supervisor Responsibilities

Control & Continuance: Monitor conditions, assess whether it's necessary to continue or stop.
Coordinating Tactics: Directs pursuit vehicles, approves/disapproves tactics, authorizes jurisdictional departure.
Considerations: Offense nature, suspect's propensity for violence, officer/vehicle safety, number of officers needed for arrest.

Watch Commander Responsibilities

Monitoring: Ensures pursuit adheres to policy. Orders termination if the danger outweighs the need.

Foot Pursuit

Authority: Officers can attempt to stop anyone suspected of criminal activity; violator initiates pursuit.
Authorization: Pursuit may be initiated if a violation occurred permitting arrest or suspect poses immediate threat to public safety.
Factors: Likelihood of apprehension, suspect identity, backup availability, officer's characteristics.
Officer's Responsibility: Notification of communications with relevant information, coordination of perimeter.
Supervisor: Determining whether to continue a foot pursuit. Orders termination if danger outweighs apprehension.
Inter-Jurisdictional: Original pursuing jurisdiction notifies any jurisdiction pursuit enters. Officers not permitted to participate in other agencies pursuit unless authorized.

Stop Sticks

Deployment Criteria: Approved training required. Not used for motorcycles/vehicles showing clear intent to harm.
Supervisor Approval: Required prior to deployment.
Deployment Procedure: Identify a suitable deployment location, inform supervisor, alert units, deploy the Stop Sticks.
Post-Deployment: Immediately retract the device, document use in reports, and follow warranty procedure. Police vehicle/individual injury documentation.

Termination of Pursuit

Criteria: Supervisor/officer orders termination if risks outweigh public benefit or if necessary (suspect's identity known, extended loss of visual contact, danger to public, juvenile suspect, weather/traffic conditions, futility of pursuit).
Following Pursuit Termination: Following pursuit vehicle is prohibited.

Reinstatement of Pursuits

Criteria: Requires same criteria as initiating pursuit.

Review Process

Reports: Officers involved submit supplemental reports, and supervisors conduct complete reviews.
Purpose: Determine necessity of pursuit, identify training needs, propose policy changes.
Debriefing: Formal debriefing is possible for significant pursuits, and reports are entered into IA PRO.

Pursuits into Other Jurisdictions

Inter-jurisdictional Procedures: Pursuing officers notify neighboring jurisdictions, and supervisors determine if pursuit should be transferred to jurisdiction. Confirmations from other jurisdiction.
Supervisory Oversight: Supervisor controls pursuing units' continuation/termination and officers' guidance.
6.20.01 – ROADBLOCKS

(revised 10/05)

To establish guidelines on the use of roadblocks in emergency situations and planned

enforcement activities. This does not limit officers in the performance of their duties

involving traffic control.

Definitions

(revised 10/05)

Roadblock – a deliberate obstruction by physical means at one or more selected points on a

roadway. NRS Chapter 484 authorizes roadblocks to accomplish two purposes:

· Administrative roadblocks – any lawful purpose other than identifying the occupants of a

vehicle or because of the existence of an emergency, e.g., DUI checkpoints.

· Temporary roadblocks – to apprehend persons known to be wanted for violation of the

laws of this state, another state or the United States, and using the highways of this state

for the purpose of escape or to control traffic at or near the scene of a potential or

existing emergency or hazard.

Authorized Roadblocks

(revised 10/05)

Fixed roadblock – a stationary blockade established at a specific location upon a roadway for

purposes of slowing, stopping or preventing passage by vehicle.

Circle system – designed to completely contain the suspect in a given area. Every possible

avenue of escape is blocked. All traffic is stopped and each motorist is thoroughly

investigated. The location of blocking points is determined by using the crime scene as the

center and drawing a circle on a map. The radius of the circle is determined by time the

estimated time lapse from the commission of the crime to the establishment of the

roadblock. Some units are dispatched to blocking points and others to patrol inside the

circle.

The inner circle is the areas immediately surrounding the crime scene and is speedily

blocked, thus forcing the fugitive into the roadblock or onto back roads or into

sparsely-populated areas where his actions will arouse suspicion and where he can be

observed more easily. Restricting the use of major highways curtails the easy blending with

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SUBJECT: ROADBLOCKS

traffic upon which the fugitive was depending. Units cruise inside the circle and check out all

reports on the fugitive.

The outer circle is set up to apprehend the fugitive if he gets through the inner circle. It is

usually several miles larger than the inner circle, and the blocking points are on principal

highways and intersections. Units are, once again, assigned to patrol between the two

circles. Helicopters, if available, are useful in checking back roads, rough terrain and isolated

areas.

Observation – although off-street observation does not fall under the usual definition of a

roadblock, it has been successfully employed in situations where the crime and other factors

did not warrant the stopping of all vehicles. Units can be assigned to preplanned locations

(similar to a roadblock site) where they will park off the roadway and observe traffic moving

from the vicinity of the crime. Once again, it is important that officers responding to the

scene secure all pertinent information and descriptions for immediate broadcast to

observers. Like roadblocks, these posts should be maintained until the commander cancels

them.

The decision to activate a temporary roadblock plan should be based on:

· The seriousness of the crime, emergency or hazard;

· Sufficient information and descriptions of wanted persons and vehicles;

· The elapsed time between the criminal act and its discovery.

The field supervisor should, if possible, assume command at the scene of the roadblock. If

the circle system is used or if the field supervisor is unable to reach the scene of the

roadblock prior to implementation, he should assign specific officers to assume command of

the roadblock(s).

Blocking Technique

(revised 10/05)

The general position of the parked patrol vehicle is at a 45-degree angle to the traffic flow.

In this position the officer can both observe and maintain mobility, which is one of the

greatest assets in this situation. In instances when an extensive check of vehicles would

cause interference with traffic flow, it is more desirable to slow traffic to a speed which will

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SUBJECT: ROADBLOCKS

enable the officer to check passing vehicles and occupants without bringing them to a

complete stop. Also, there may be locations where the terrain does not readily permit a

complete stop. No person(s) shall be allowed to remain inside vehicles used to block the

roadway.

Two-lane Roadways – on a two-lane road, to stop traffic traveling only in one direction, the

vehicle will be parked at a 45-degree angle to the traffic flow, partially on the roadway,

blocking the lane used by the traffic to be stopped. The normal speed of traffic on the

highway will determine the placement of warning devices. In placing devices ahead of the

block, consideration must be given not only to stopping distances, including the reaction

and braking time, but also to strategic location so as to retain the element of surprise and

reduce the probability of a turnaround. Generally, the devices should be placed in the

approximate center of the roadway facing the traffic to be stopped. Lettering on a sign

should be large enough to be read at a distance. In darkness it should be illuminated.

A stop sign should be placed at the roadblock point. The regular highway stop sign

generally can be used. Red lights should be placed at the side of the roadway. Flares, signs,

obstructions, lights, properly positioned vehicles and appropriate armaments will make the

roadblock safer for you. At night the officer investigating stopped vehicles should stay off

the road and out of oncoming headlights. There should be sufficient illumination from

another light source for him to be readily recognizable as a police officer, however. Once a

car has stopped, he should approach on the driver's side, from the left rear of the vehicle,

rather than walking straight out from the side of the road or in front of the stopped vehicle.

While the officer is checking the vehicle, a second officer should take a position on the

opposite side of the patrol car, using the engine of the car as a shield, and keeping the

entire area covered. If a third officer is present at the roadblock point, he should take

advantage of natural cover on the opposite side of the road, even with the police car and

out of the firing line of the second officer.

Light traffic can be stopped in both directions with this system. However, in heavy traffic it is

necessary to set up this blocking procedure on both sides of the road. The second block

should be close enough (roughly 75 yards away and in sight of the first block) to provide

assistance.

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Multi-lane Roadways – the blockade of one side of a multi-lane highway is basically the

same as a blockade on an one- or two-lane roadway. A major difference is the placement of

warning devices. Because of greater traffic speed, the devices must be placed farther ahead

to allow time for a safe stop. In placing the devices, allow for a traffic backup. Since this is a

multi-lane road, at least two such devices must be placed on both sides of the roadway.

Flares and signs should be arranged to funnel traffic into one or more lanes.

NRS have established the following minimum warning device requirements:

Administrative Roadblock

(revised 10/05)

The administrative roadblock must be established at a point on the highway clearly visible to

approaching traffic at a distance of not less than 100 yards in either direction.

At the point of the administrative roadblock, a sign must be placed near the center line of

the highway displaying the word "Stop" in letters of sufficient size and luminosity to be

readable at a distance of not less than 50 yards in the direction affected by the roadblock,

either in daytime or darkness.

At the same point of the administrative roadblock, at least one red flashing or intermittent

light, on and burning, must be placed at the side of the highway, clearly visible to the

oncoming traffic at a distance of not less than 100 yards.

At a distance of not less than one-quarter of a mile from the point of the administrative

roadblock, warning signs must be placed at the side of the highway, containing any wording

of sufficient size and luminosity to warn the oncoming traffic that a "police stop" lies ahead.

A burning beam light, flare or lantern must be placed near the signs to attract the attention

of the traffic to the sign.

Temporary Roadblock

(revised 10/05)

The temporary roadblock must be established at a point on the highway clearly visible at a

distance of not less than 100 yards in either direction.

At the point of the temporary roadblock, an authorized emergency vehicle, plainly and

clearly marked as such and with its warning lights in operation, must be placed so as to be

clearly visible to traffic affected by the roadblock at a distance of not less than 100 yards.

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SUBJECT: ROADBLOCKS

When so placed, at least one of the vehicle's flashing red lights must be visible to

approaching traffic at a distance of not less than 100 yards.

At the same point of the temporary roadblock, sufficient cones, reflectors, burning flares or

similar devices must be in place to identify the point of the roadblock and direct, as

necessary, the path to be followed by a vehicle approaching the roadblock. The devices,

when in place, must be clearly visible to traffic affected by the roadblock at a distance of not

less than 100 yards.

At a point located not less than 200 yards, but not more than 400 yards, from the point of

the temporary roadblock, cones, reflectors, burning flares or similar devices must be placed

on both shoulders of the highway and near the center line of the highway to warn traffic

that a condition hazardous to traffic exists in the immediate vicinity.

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Description

This quiz explores the protocols and regulations surrounding police vehicle pursuits. It covers critical concepts such as emergency status, authorized vehicles, and the roles of primary and secondary units during a chase. Test your knowledge on procedures that guide law enforcement in pursuit scenarios.