WYANDOTTE (WWJ) -- The Wyandotte Police Department is calling for legislative reform following the arrest of a parolee who allegedly led multiple law enforcement agencies on a high-speed pursuit on Monday.
According to Wyandotte Police, the incident began shortly after 3 p.m. on May 4.
Police sa a male suspect, currently on parole with prior felony convictions for armed robbery, killing and torturing animals, and fleeing and eluding, was driving recklessly through the downtown area.
Officials said the suspect was allegedly under the influence of crack cocaine at the time of the incident.
The pursuit spanned multiple jurisdictions.
Two separate police agencies initially attempted to stop the vehicle, but both agencies terminated their pursuits due to safety concerns as the suspect continued to drive recklessly through heavy afternoon traffic.
The situation ended when Wyandotte Police officers intercepted the vehicle.
Officers deployed a "grappler" police bumper — a device designed to ensnare the rear wheel of a suspect's vehicle —bringing the car to a controlled stop and taking the driver into custody without further incident.
With this incident in mind, the Wyandotte Police said they're advocating for the passage of House Bill 4690.
The proposed legislation would mandate jail time for individuals convicted of fleeing and eluding law enforcement.
"Criminals know that they can victimize and endanger hardworking people without any real consequence," the department said in a statement. "HB-4690 will take away this free pass for criminals which will, without question, save innocent lives."
While the Michigan House of Representatives has already voted in favor of the bill, it currently awaits action in the Senate. Local law enforcement officials are urging residents to contact their state senators to support the measure, citing Monday’s pursuit as a primary example of why stricter sentencing is necessary for high-speed chases.
The identity of the suspect has not yet been released pending formal arraignment.
