A new Missouri law lets police respond to certain situations—like chasing a speeding driver—without using lights or sirens.
Law enforcement agencies and residents are learning to adjust to the new rule that went into effect in August.
Kevin Merritt, Executive Director of the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association, told Missourinet that the law is complex and could cause problems for officers.
“When the traveling motorists or pedestrians have no idea that a law enforcement vehicle is in the area or approaching at a high rate of speed, or that they’re going to go through a stop sign or a stop light if they’re not aware of or can’t detect or see a siren or red light,” said Merritt.
Merritt told Missourinet that departments are still developing policies and procedures for the new law.
“I just think there’s a lot of issues to be worked through when any law enforcement driver is going to drive faster than the posted speed limit or disregard traffic devices where you go the wrong way on the street,” said Merritt. “Or you can proceed through stop sign to stop lights, and now the vehicles don’t have to have lights or siren on.”
Merritt said insurance agencies may also have a say on whether an agency implements the new law.
“What will the insurance carrier for these organizations have to say about the officers exceeding the speed limit? You know, driving real fast without lights and sirens on. So, I think that the insurance companies, underwriters might have a little bit to say about that.”
Merritt said, so far, the Missouri Sheriffs’ Association is not aware of any of its member agencies using the new law.
As law enforcement agencies work to interpret and implement the new rules, Missourians can learn more by reviewing the full statute at revisor.mo.gov or by contacting their local police department for policy specifics.
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