When is it appropriate for an officer to terminate a pursuit?

The appropriate time for an officer to terminate a pursuit is when the danger posed by continuing the pursuit outweighs the severity of the violation committed by the suspect. In many scenarios, pursuits can escalate into highly dangerous situations, not only for the officers involved but also for the public and other roadway users. If the nature of the violation does not justify the risks associated with a high-speed chase, it is prudent for the officer to discontinue the pursuit to maintain public safety.

For instance, if a suspect is fleeing due to a minor traffic violation, the associated risks from the pursuit—such as potential collisions and injury to bystanders—may far surpass the need to apprehend the driver immediately. Evaluating the situation and making the decision to terminate the pursuit based on the level of danger reflects sound judgment and prioritizes safety over apprehension.