(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The Chicago Police Department has proposed new rules governing when foot chases by officers are advisable — and when they’re not.
CPD officials say foot pursuits are risky to police officers, the public and the people being chased. A new policy outlines what police officers should consider when deciding whether to give chase to a suspect.
Foot pursuits would be permitted in cases of crimes like aggravated assault, domestic battery and unlawful use of a weapon, but not for less-serious offenses such as public drinking or driving on a suspended license.
The policy said there should not be a foot pursuit if a subject is unwilling to talk with police, and police should not intentionally provoke pursuits. Officers should also consider alternatives like containing the area or using video monitoring or helicopters in lieu of foot chases, the policy advises.
Last March, two people were killed during police foot chases —13-year-old Adam Toledo and 22-year-old Anthony Alvarez — prompting the review.
The public has 15 days to comment on the proposal.
No officer or supervisor would be disciplined or criticized for deciding not to pursue a suspect or for calling off a chase because of the risks.
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