43.101.226 - Vehicular pursuits -- Model policy. - Washington Statutes

Vehicular pursuits — Model policy.

(1) By December 1, 2003, the Washington state criminal justice training commission, the Washington state patrol, the Washington association of sheriffs and police chiefs, and organizations representing state and local law enforcement officers shall develop a written model policy on vehicular pursuits.

     (2) The model policy must meet all of the following minimum standards:

     (a) Provide for supervisory control, if available, of the pursuit;

     (b) Provide procedures for designating the primary pursuit vehicle and for determining the total number of vehicles to be permitted to participate at one time in the pursuit;

     (c) Provide procedures for coordinating operations with other jurisdictions; and

     (d) Provide guidelines for determining when the interests of public safety and effective law enforcement justify a vehicular pursuit and when a vehicular pursuit should not be initiated or should be terminated.

     (3) By June 1, 2004, every state, county, and municipal law enforcement agency shall adopt and implement a written vehicular pursuit policy. The policy adopted may, but need not, be the model policy developed under subsections (1) and (2) of this section. However, any policy adopted must address the minimum requirements specified in subsection (2) of this section.

[2003 c 37 § 2.]

Notes: Intent -- 2003 c 37: See note following RCW 43.101.225.