Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) Law Enforcement Driver Practice Test

What indicates that a pursuit should be continued?

1. A minor traffic violation

2. A serious threat to public safety

3. Personal interest in the arrest

4. Weather conditions

The correct answer is: A serious threat to public safety

The continuation of a pursuit is primarily justified when there is a serious threat to public safety. This indicates that if the suspect poses an imminent danger to others—such as driving recklessly, fleeing from a violent crime, or engaging in behavior that could harm innocent bystanders—law enforcement has a responsibility to prioritize public safety over other considerations. In pursuing a suspect under these circumstances, officers are acting in the interest of protecting the community from potential harm. The urgency of the threat influences the decision to continue the pursuit, as allowing a dangerous individual to escape could result in further criminal activity or endanger lives. Other factors such as a minor traffic violation would not warrant the continuation of a pursuit, as the risks involved may not justify the potential danger to both officers and the public. Personal interest in making an arrest or adverse weather conditions also do not outweigh the immediate dangers posed by a suspect exhibiting behavior that threatens public safety, reinforcing the importance of the serious threat as a key criterion for pursuing a suspect.