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ICE memo reportedly bans car chases and restricts vehicle stops

An internal agency memo limits vehicle maneuvers and requires specific training, according to Jalopnik.

The short version

  • An internal ICE directive bans high-speed car chases and stops officers from pursuing vehicles that refuse to pull over.[Jalopnik]
  • Officers must complete designated training to initiate stops or deploy tactics like spike strips and pinning maneuvers.[Jalopnik]
  • Vehicles conducting stops must feature lights and sirens, while untrained officers are barred from driving during these operations.[Jalopnik]
  • An agency spokesperson downplayed the memo, asserting it is a routine reminder that makes no changes to stop procedures.[Jalopnik]

Key facts

  • An internal ICE directive bans high-speed pursuits entirely and forbids chasing drivers who refuse to pull over.[Jalopnik]
  • Officers must have specialized training to initiate vehicle stops, execute vehicle pinning, or deploy spike strips.[Jalopnik]
  • Vehicles used to carry out stops must be equipped with working lights and sirens.[Jalopnik]
  • Untrained officers may participate in operations only in a support capacity and are prohibited from driving.[Jalopnik]
  • An ICE spokesperson stated the memo is an occasional reminder that makes no changes to how stops are conducted.[Jalopnik]

What remains uncertain

  • Reports conflict on the exact training requirements, with citations indicating either one out of five or one out of six courses is required.[Jalopnik]
  • It remains disputed whether the directive represents new operational restrictions or merely reiterates existing procedures.[Jalopnik]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.