NEW YORK, N.Y. — New York City Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch announced sweeping changes to the NYPD’s vehicle pursuit policy on Tuesday, aiming to enhance public safety and reduce risks to officers and civilians.
The updated policy, effective February 1, 2025, limits officers’ discretion to initiate vehicle pursuits to only the most serious and violent crimes, such as felonies and violent misdemeanors. Pursuits for traffic infractions, violations, or non-violent misdemeanors will no longer be permitted.
“Pursuits for violations and low-level crimes can be both potentially dangerous and unnecessary,” Commissioner Tisch said in a statement. “Now, our cops will have clear, unambiguous parameters for when to initiate, continue, and terminate these pursuits.”
The policy also increases supervisory oversight, requiring active management of pursuits, monitoring of speeds, and the involvement of specialized units when necessary. Officers will not face criticism or disciplinary action for ending pursuits they deem unsafe.
Technological enhancements will improve record-keeping, and all pursuits will undergo monthly reviews to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement. Officers will receive mandatory academy training, and the department will issue an annual report on the policy’s implementation.
In 2024, the NYPD recorded 2,278 vehicle pursuits, with 25% resulting in collisions, property damage, or injuries. Under the new policy, many of these pursuits—67% of which stemmed from fleeing car stops—would not have been authorized.
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The reforms reflect the NYPD’s ongoing efforts to balance effective crime prevention with public safety.