5.1 Purpose

The purpose of this chapter is to establish procedures and guidelines for traffic enforcement and pursuit operations conducted by the San Andreas State Police (SASP). These protocols ensure officer safety, public safety, and the effective enforcement of traffic laws within the jurisdiction of the State of San Andreas.

5.2 Authority & Responsibility

All SASP personnel are responsible for upholding state traffic laws and ensuring road safety. Officers conducting traffic enforcement and vehicle pursuits must comply with department policies, exercise sound judgment, and prioritize public safety.

5.3 Traffic Stops

Officers must conduct traffic stops in a professional and controlled manner, ensuring officer safety, compliance with the law, and minimal disruption to public safety.

1. • 2 patrol vehicles max. Additional cops may be requested if the scene escalates to a violent crime. 

5.3.1 Initiating a Traffic Stop

1. Identify the Violation – Ensure probable cause or reasonable suspicion exists.

2. Activate Emergency Lights & Siren – Signal the driver to pull over in a safe location.

3. Dispatch Notification – Inform other officers on duty of:

   • Location

   • Vehicle description (Make, Model, Color, License Plate)

   • Number of occupants

   • Reason for stop

4. Approach the Vehicle Safely – Maintain situational awareness, approach from the driver’s side or passenger side as needed, and observe occupants for suspicious behavior.

5. Engage the Driver – Identify yourself, state the reason for the stop, and request license.

5.3.2 Conducting the Stop

• Traffic Violations – Issue a verbal warning, written citation, or arrest based on the severity of the offense.

• Warrants/Criminal Activity – If a warrant is discovered, confirm its validity and take appropriate enforcement action.

• Vehicle Searches – A search may only be conducted with probable cause, driver consent, or exigent circumstances.

5.3.3 High-Risk / Felony Stops

When a suspect vehicle is involved in a felony or is otherwise high-risk, officers must conduct a felony traffic stop using the following procedures:

1. Request backup before initiating the stop.

2. Use loud verbal commands to direct occupants.

3. Ensure driver and passengers exit one at a time, facing away with hands visible.

4. Secure suspects before approaching the vehicle.

5.4 Pursuit Guidelines

Vehicle pursuits should be conducted only when necessary and in compliance with SASP policies. Officers must balance risk vs. reward.

5.4.1 Pursuit Initiation

Officers may initiate a pursuit when:
A felony crime has been committed.
A suspect poses a serious threat to public safety.
The driver fails to stop after lawful commands.

 Do Not Pursue if:

• The suspect’s only violation is a minor traffic offense.

• The pursuit poses excessive risk to the public.

• Visibility or road conditions make safe pursuit impossible.

5.4.2 Pursuit Protocol

1. Activate Emergency Equipment – Lights and siren must remain on during the entire pursuit.

2. Notify Other Officers – Provide location, speed, suspect vehicle description, and reason for pursuit.

3. Maintain a Safe Distance – Avoid excessive speeds that could lead to loss of control.

5.4.3 Pursuit Roles

• Primary Unit – The initiating officer responsible for radio communication and pursuit direction.

• Secondary Unit – Assists by providing backup and calling out suspect movements.

• Additional Units - May attach to the pursuit if necessary

5.4.4 Pursuit Termination

A pursuit must be terminated when:
Risk to public safety exceeds the necessity of capture.
Visibility or road conditions deteriorate.
Ordered by a supervisor.

5.4.5 Authorized Pursuit Termination Techniques

Officers may use the following pre-approved techniques only when authorized by a supervisor:

• Spike Strips – Deployed ahead of suspect vehicle.

• PIT Maneuver – Only at speeds under 120 MPH and in controlled conditions. (See Use of Force)

• Roadblocks – Must be pre-approved and in compliance with safety standards.

Deadly Force (Shooting at a Vehicle) is a LAST RESORT and must only be used if the suspect poses an imminent threat to life.

5.5 Post-Pursuit Procedures

5.5.1 Arrest & Scene Management

• Once the suspect is stopped and detained, officers must conduct a thorough search of the vehicle and occupants.

• Injured persons must receive immediate medical attention.

• Officers must preserve evidence

5.5.2 Pursuit Review & Reporting

• All pursuits that end with a suspect in custody require an Incident Report. All pursuits should have a report written, but this is at the officer's discretion.