Priceville Police chief Jerry Holmes has updated departmental pursuit guidelines following a fatal police chase in September.
The policy change forbids officers from leaving the jurisdiction during a police chase over traffic violations.
Holmes issued a statement to WAFF regarding the rule change.
“I have issued a new directive, effective immediately, to terminate pursuits at the Priceville Police jurisdictional boundary in any direction when an officer has only reasonable suspicion and traffic violations," Holmes said. "This directive also applies to the felony pursuit law under similar circumstance."
RELATED: Priceville City Council unanimously reverses firing of officer involved in fatal police pursuit
The chief explained the purpose of the update is to "limit the involvement of department personnel in pursuits beyond the Priceville city limits, allowing them only in situations that are essential for safeguarding the lives and safety of individuals affected by a fleeing suspect."
On September 6, Priceville Police officer Garry Chapman attempted to pull a driver over for moving violations and suspicion of DUI when the suspect fled, eventually striking a vehicle in Hartselle, killing one teenager and injuring six others. Speeds during the chase reportedly reached 100 miles per hour.
Chapman was fired from the department after the crash, but was eventually reinstated after the Priceville City Council unanimously reversed his termination. Chapman is now suing the City for $10 million, claiming he is facing emotional pain and suffering because of the incident. He is also alleging that the City engaged in disparagement.
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