Police Tactics in Chasing Armed Suspects: Ethical and Practical Considerations

The pursuit of an armed suspect can be a tense and dangerous situation for both law enforcement officers and the public. This article explores the ethical and practical considerations involved in such scenarios, focusing on the measures taken by police officers when chasing an armed suspect on foot.

The Reality of Chasing Armed Suspects

When dealing with an armed suspect who is fleeing the scene, police officers face a critical decision. Under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, Tennessee v. Garner allows for the use of deadly force if the officer reasonably believes the suspect poses a significant threat of death or serious physical injury. This guideline forms the backbone of a officer’s decision-making process in such high-risk situations.

Should Officers Shoot an Armed Suspect?

Some argue that, given the serious threat an armed suspect poses, law enforcement should not hesitate to use deadly force to prevent further harm. The recent incidents, such as the one in the author's city where a suspect shot a car owner before being taken down by an armed citizen, highlight the potential escalation from a risky chase to a deadly confrontation.

However, others may strongly disagree with this stance, questioning the moral and ethical implications of taking a life. Regardless of personal beliefs, it is crucial to understand the reality faced by law enforcement. The decision to use deadly force is complex and multifaceted, involving immediate threats as well as long-term community safety.

Chasing an Armed Suspect on Foot: Challenges and Gear

Foot chases differ significantly from the depictions seen in television and movies. Officer's equipment, which typically includes overtime pay, radios, and other necessities, adds around 20 to 40 pounds to their body. This additional weight can significantly reduce their speed and endurance.

The average person who is not an Olympic athlete cannot sustain a run for over 10 minutes. Even for trained police officers, the physical demands of prolonged running on city streets can be overwhelming. To counteract this, police frequently use helicopters to guide their pursuit and assist in tracking the suspect's movements.

Procedures and Tactics Used During the Chase

During a foot chase, police officers usually follow the suspect until a strategic location is identified where a shoot is considered justifiable. For instance, an area with a good backstop (such as a wall or a building) ensures that any shots fired will not accidentally harm bystanders or other individuals. The officers often give the suspect ample warning before taking action, allowing them to comply or prepare for unavoidable confrontation.

Targeted blows to a suspect's knees, known as salt distances, are also employed to temporarily incapacitate the fleeing individual. These strikes, however, rarely result in a successful arrest and often leave the suspect unharmed. The goal is to slow them down enough to make an arrest or dispose of the weapon before a more decisive action is needed.

Conclusion: Balancing Law and Morality

The pursuit of an armed suspect is a situation that requires a delicate balance of law and morality. Officers must weigh the immediate threat to themselves, other officers, and the public against the rights of the suspect. This decision, while controversial, is made in the best interest of public safety.

Understanding the complexities of such situations and the measures taken by law enforcement can help foster a more informed and nuanced view of police work. Whether one agrees with the use of lethal force in such cases, it is essential to recognize the difficult choices officers face and the risks they endure to protect their communities.

For those who do not wish to engage in such discussions, the hope is that they remain safe and do not face the need to make such a decision. Meanwhile, let’s continue to support and respect the men and women who serve and protect us, even in the face of extreme challenges.

Keywords: armed suspects, police tactics, foot chases