In policing terms, a pursuit is defined as what?

• A. A routine traffic stop.
• B. A planned pursuit of any vehicle.
• C. A warning and cessation of pursuit.
• D. Attempt to stop fleeing vehicle.

Answer: (D)

A pursuit means the officer is actively trying to stop a vehicle that is fleeing. This distinguishes it from a routine traffic stop, where the vehicle isn’t actively evading, and from simply issuing a warning and ending the chase, which wouldn’t involve the ongoing effort to bring the fleeing vehicle to a stop. The defining action is the deliberate attempt to intervene and stop a vehicle that is trying to escape, despite the higher risk and the need to follow department pursuit policies and safety procedures.