
NY Attorney General welcomes new NYPD policy of limiting vehicle pursuits

ALBANY — NY ATTORNEY GENERAL LETITIA JAMES IS PRAISING the NYPD’s new policy limiting vehicle pursuits to serious or violent cases. In a statement on Wednesday, Jan. 15, Attorney General James said that the new rules will better ensure the safety of officers and the public.
“New Yorkers should never have to fear for their safety on our streets,” said James. “Too often, vehicle pursuits for minor offenses put innocent bystanders in harm’s way, and NYPD officers deserve clear rules and guidance that will allow them to pursue criminals without endangering others. I welcome these policy changes that will protect both the police and the public, and enable the NYPD to better protect our city.”
The City reported in 2023 that collisions from vehicle pursuits had spiked dramatically since Mayor Adams took office in 2022. Current new Chief of Department John Chell, in his previous role as Chief of Patrol, was reportedly among those who implemented the NYPD’s aggressive vehicle pursuit policy. However, on Wednesday, Chell seemed to reverse, saying the new policy “strikes that critical balance” between pursuing criminals and weighing when the risks to the public and officers outweigh the benefit.
“Our overarching objective—every minute of every day—is to keep the people of this great city safe,” said Chell.
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