Bill > S0008

This bill amends South Carolina law by establishing comprehensive guidelines for vehicular pursuits by law enforcement officers. The bill requires the South Carolina Law Enforcement Training Council to create policies and training courses that strictly regulate when officers can initiate a vehicular pursuit. Pursuits are only permitted under specific circumstances, such as when there is probable cause to believe the vehicle contains someone who has committed a violent crime, sex offense, or escaped detention, or when there is reasonable suspicion of driving under the influence. Officers must obtain supervisory authorization and carefully consider safety risks, including factors like speed, weather, traffic conditions, and the presence of minors. For smaller jurisdictions with fewer than ten officers, alternative procedures for supervisor notification are outlined. The bill also restricts officers from firing weapons at moving vehicles, allowing such action only when facing an imminent threat of serious physical harm. Additionally, the bill provides a detailed definition of "vehicular pursuit," emphasizing that it involves an officer's attempt to stop a vehicle where the driver is actively evading or resisting the stop. The legislation aims to balance law enforcement needs with public safety concerns by establishing clear, restrictive guidelines for high-risk vehicular pursuits.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=8&session=126&summary=B