Police Chases: Are Bystanders and Active Participants Killed in Pursuits Excluded from “Killed by Police” Lists?

Recent reports have highlighted a concerning issue regarding the compilation of annual “killed by police” lists. According to an analysis conducted by independent researchers, neither bystanders nor active participants in police chases who are killed in those pursuits are included in most of these lists.

The Exclusion of Police Chase Fatalities

In a tweet posted by user @OLAASM, it was pointed out that individuals who lose their lives as a result of police chases are often overlooked in the official annual reports on police-related fatalities. This revelation has sparked a debate about the accuracy and comprehensiveness of these lists.

Police chases, while aimed at capturing suspects and maintaining public safety, can have tragic consequences. Not only are the individuals being pursued at risk, but innocent bystanders who happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time can also become victims of these high-speed pursuits.

Despite the potential for fatal outcomes, it appears that these deaths are not systematically recorded in the “killed by police” lists that are commonly used to assess law enforcement actions and trends. This omission raises concerns about the true extent of police-related fatalities and the need for more comprehensive reporting.

Implications and Call for Transparency

The exclusion of bystanders and active participants in police chases from the official “killed by police” lists has significant implications. By not accounting for these deaths, the public and policymakers may have an incomplete understanding of the risks associated with police pursuits and the impact they have on communities.

Furthermore, the lack of transparency in reporting these fatalities undermines the trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. It is crucial for authorities to acknowledge and address this issue to ensure accurate and accountable reporting.

Potential Solutions

In order to rectify this oversight, it is necessary to implement changes in the data collection and reporting methods. Law enforcement agencies should be encouraged to include all deaths resulting from police chases in their official reports. Additionally, organizations responsible for compiling “killed by police” lists should revise their criteria to reflect a more comprehensive representation of police-related fatalities.

Moreover, there is a need for increased public awareness and engagement on this matter. The public should demand transparency and accountability from law enforcement agencies, pushing for more accurate reporting and a commitment to reducing the risks associated with police chases.

Conclusion

The exclusion of bystanders and active participants in police chases from the official “killed by police” lists is a concerning issue that warrants attention. The omission of these fatalities raises questions about the accuracy of current reporting practices and the need for increased transparency.

By acknowledging and addressing this issue, authorities can work towards a more comprehensive understanding of police-related fatalities and strive to minimize the risks associated with police chases. It is essential for both law enforcement agencies and organizations responsible for compiling these lists to prioritize accurate reporting and accountability.

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neither bystanders nor active participants in police chases who are killed in those pursuits are included in most annual, “killed by police” lists https://t.co/U0y6XPO8IO

— nobody from nowhere (@OLAASM) December 29, 2023

Source

@OLAASM said neither bystanders nor active participants in police chases who are killed in those pursuits are included in most annual, "killed by police" lists twitter.com/patiencezalang…