The determination of an officer on the scene to apprehend any fleeing suspect is commendable, but it's easy to see how the adrenaline could sometimes overtake common sense and unintentionally put innocent people at risk. So it's reassuring to know, in the aftermath of a recent chase that ended in Taylor County, that the Taylor County sheriff's office and the Abilene Police Department have sensible restricted-pursuit policies in place that govern officers' conduct in such situations. The officer on the scene makes the initial call, but a chase can be called off at any time by supervisors if they deem it has grown too dangerous for the public.
Deadly force is absolutely a last resort.
Often, suspects will be picked up later, anyway. There might be a frustrating delay, but the danger to bystanders is thus minimized. Plus, roadblocks and spikes are frequently just as effective as chases in apprehending fleeing criminals. Our law enforcement officers are on the job to serve and protect the public. It's good to know they keep that uppermost in their minds.