Who has the authority to call off a police pursuit?

The authority to call off a police pursuit typically rests with a supervisor. This is because supervisors are trained to evaluate the situation comprehensively and consider various factors such as public safety, the severity of the offense that prompted the pursuit, and the overall risk associated with continuing the chase.

Supervisors have the experience and authority to make crucial decisions in real-time, ensuring that any pursuit aligns with department policies and prioritizes the safety of the public and the officers involved. While patrol officers are actively engaged in the pursuit, their focus is often on handling the immediate situation rather than assessing the broader implications of continuing the chase.

Though a Chief of Police and a dispatcher could play roles in operational oversight and communication during pursuits, they do not typically have the direct authority to call off a pursuit in the field. Thus, the supervisor's role is essential in maintaining a balance between enforcing the law and safeguarding community welfare.