KENNEWICK — March 9, 2023 — The Washington Fraternal Order of Police (WAFOP) issued the following statement in support of Engrossed Senate Bill 5352, addressing vehicular police pursuits:

“We appreciate the work of the Senate to ensure the discussion continues this session on police pursuits. Engrossed Senate Bill 5352 would provide key improvements to the current pursuit law and gives peace officers the tools they need to pursue offenders,” said Marco Monteblanco, president of the Washington Fraternal Order of Police. “While ESB 5352 does not address all of our questions and concerns about pursuits, it restores some ability — and provides key guardrails — for peace officers to initiate pursuits when they have reasonable suspicion that a crime has been committed or believe the driver poses a serious risk to do harm.

“WAFOP believes this legislation could make a meaningful improvement in public safety in the short run, and represents an important next step in the evolution of vehicular police pursuit laws,” he added. “We are hopeful that ESB 5352 continues to advance this session, and we look forward to continuing to be part of the discussions on this important issue.”

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