MPD releases statement on vehicle pursuits

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – The Milwaukee Police Department released a statement on Wednesday regarding concerns about vehicle pursuits.

MPD says the department takes pursuits very seriously and understands they are dangerous, however, they will continue the practice to keep the community a safer place overall.

The department says each pursuit is subject to oversight. If a supervisor or officer believes the pursuit is too dangerous, it may be terminated at any time. After a chase, it is reviewed by members of the department.

MPD says without an expansive pursuit policy, many criminals could avoid apprehension by driving away. MPD says they believe the current pursuit policy is a major factor in a reduction of crime from 2017 to 2018. According to the department, homicides decreased 16 percent from 2017 and nonfatal shootings dropped 15 percent.