GPS Darts and Police Pursuits: An Effective Alternative to High-Speed Chases

Tim recently mentioned a company called Star Chase that produces a device designed to prevent high-speed police pursuits, a topic that has sparked much debate. In this article, we will explore the details of this innovative technology and its potential benefits for law enforcement and public safety.

Understanding the Problem

High-speed police pursuits often result in collisions, injuries, and even fatalities, including those of innocent bystanders. The cost of these incidents, both in terms of property damage and human life, far exceeds the financial benefits often cited by law enforcement. The classic argument often heard is that police departments need to write traffic tickets to generate revenue. However, this revenue, coupled with federal funding, is simply not enough to justify the costs associated with preventing pursuit-related incidents.

Introducing the StarChase System

One solution to this problem is the StarChase system, a device that provides a non-lethal method to stop fleeing vehicles. Instead of pursuing suspects at high speeds, this system involves tagging the vehicle with a projectile containing a GPS transmitter.

The StarChase Device

The StarChase device is installed on the front of patrol cars. When an officer deems it necessary to stop a fleeing vehicle, they can manually launch a projectile. The projectile, which is highly adhesive and contains a radio transmitter, is fired from a launcher on the patrol car. This method requires the officer to be relatively close to the fleeing vehicle, as the launch range is limited.

The Launch and Tracking Process

Once the projectile is launched and sticks to the fleeing vehicle, it immediately starts broadcasting its location. The police can then disengage in the pursuit and close in on the vehicle when it is in a more advantageous position for arrest or investigation. The launcher holds only two projectiles, and each projectile costs several hundred dollars, making precise targeting essential.

Benefits and Challenges

The StarChase system offers several potential benefits:

Reduced Risk of Injury: By providing a non-lethal means to stop fleeing vehicles, the system significantly reduces the risk of injuries and fatalities resulting from high-speed chases. Cost-Effective: While the initial investment in the launcher and projectiles is significant, the total cost compared to the potential savings from reduced pursuit-related incidents is substantial. Precise Targeting: The system is designed to be used in a relatively close-range scenario, ensuring that the projectile is placed correctly and effectively. Non-Invasive: The use of a projectile instead of a direct physical confrontation ensures that the situation remains non-violent.

However, there are also some challenges:

Cost of Projectiles: Each projectile costs several hundred dollars and is a one-time use item, limiting opportunities for practice. Launcher Range: The limited range of the launcher means that the officer must be close to the fleeing vehicle to use the system effectively. Aim Accuracy: The system requires significant accuracy in aiming, which can be challenging in fast-moving situations.

Conclusion

The StarChase system represents a promising solution for reducing the risks associated with high-speed police pursuits. While there are costs and challenges associated with its implementation, the potential benefits in terms of public safety and cost-effectiveness make it a compelling alternative. As more agencies adopt this technology, it is hoped that we will see a significant reduction in the number of pursuit-related incidents and their associated costs.