This document serves to inform all Officers and members of the HSU about the operational guidelines for High-Speed Interceptor Units and pursuit tactics utilized by the department.
The following information is broken down into key categories:
Authorization and Use of HSU Vehicles
HSU Patrol Protocols
Pursuit Procedures
Use and Deployment of Roadblocks & Spike Strips
Command & Communication Structure During Pursuits
Vehicles used by this division of the DSPD must prioritize calls involving high-speed suspects or cases where a vehicle has multiple evasions (i.e., 3 evasions) from law enforcement.
A maximum of 2 HSU units may be deployed at a time unless situational necessity requires a 3rd unit (must be approved).
HSU deployment must be authorized by a Sergeant or higher.
When DSSD staffing is low, prioritize using 4-door vehicles to facilitate efficient transport and processing of detained suspects.
HSU is primarily tasked with handling high-speed pursuits, working alongside patrol units when necessary.
HSU may conduct standard patrols across city streets, highways, and county roads to remain ready for rapid deployment.
If patrol units are insufficient, HSU should assist in regular patrol operations until needed.
HSU must not attach to pursuits unless directed by the commanding officer.
If an HSU officer encounters a crime involving a vehicle not deemed high-speed priority, they may pursue temporarily while relaying location updates until standard patrol units take over.
If insufficient patrol units are available, HSU may maintain pursuit presence in a rear position until backup arrives.
Only 2 HSU units per pursuit to ensure efficient callouts and collision contingency planning.
If the primary unit crashes, the secondary unit immediately assumes pursuit control.
Callouts must be clear and consistent to allow supporting officers to set up roadblocks, spike strips, and strategic cutoffs.
A secondary unit may not be needed for every pursuit—this decision is left to the first attached HSU officer.
If both HSU units are engaged in a single pursuit, but another priority pursuit arises, the secondary unit may detach to assist the new call.
Officers must prioritize vehicle condition, ensuring suspects make the error first rather than aggressive driving causing unnecessary damage to department assets.
PIT maneuvers must only be executed as per academy training, considering speed, surroundings, and risk assessment.
This section covers strategic placement of roadblocks and spike strips during pursuits.
Deployed when sufficient units are available.
Can be called by an HSU officer or Sergeant when:
The pursuit path is predictable (e.g., long highways, repeated circuits).
There are enough units ahead of the pursuit route to deploy effectively.
Reserved for road sections where the pursuit can be concluded safely with minimal civilian risk or property damage.
This section outlines the chain of command during high-speed pursuits.
The highest-ranking officer attached to the pursuit holds authoritative control.
Tactic deployment remains under command oversight, unless overridden by a Sergeant or higher.
If no Sergeants or higher are present, the command defaults to:
The first attached HSU officer if initiated by HSU.
The lead vehicle if the pursuit was already in progress before HSU attachment.
Primary: Maintains control and visual contact with the suspect vehicle.
Secondary: Relays accurate location updates to assisting units.
Air Support (if deployed): Takes over location callouts on open highways or when buildings restrict line of sight.
Additional Units (3rd & 4th): Provide traffic control, tactical deployments, and execute roadblocks/spike strips upon command.