The National Police Association Backs Michigan Bill Cracking Down on Drivers Who Flee Police

INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Evading police often results in high-speed, reckless driving that causes destruction, untold suffering, and loss of life. Innocent drivers sharing the road with the evader, unsuspecting pedestrians, police officers, as well as the suspect and the suspect's passengers, are all placed in harm's way.

Michigan joins other states in the union that have seen a dramatic increase in fleeing from the police. This is happening because offenders know that law enforcement agencies have adopted policies that limit or prohibit chases. A bill introduced by Rep. Rylee Linting (027) in the Michigan House of Representatives (H.B. 4690) would amend Michigan's criminal code to establish more stringent sentences, including a mandatory minimum prison term, for fleeing from police. This bill is currently in the Michigan legislature's Justice Committee. The text for the bill is here.

The bill also creates four levels of evading the police based on factors such as whether the evasion resulted in a car crash or serious injury, or the suspect has prior convictions. The minimum penalty ranges from 182 days in jail to five years' imprisonment.

"Instances of fleeing from police are occurring in greater frequency because offenders are taking advantage of no-chase or restricted-chase policies established by local governments. This blatant lawlessness is destroying lives and needs to be met with stricter consequences," said Paula Fitzsimmons, Legislative Director, National Police Association. "Establishing stricter penalties that incorporate a mandatory minimum prison sentence for evading the police and upending lives is the correct prescription," Fitzsimmons added.

The NPA extends its gratitude to Rep. Linting for introducing a bill in the Michigan legislature to adopt stricter penalties — including a mandatory minimum sentence — for fleeing from police. These acts, which have dangerously trended upward, are destroying lives. This bill provides law enforcement, judges, and district attorneys with another tool to hold to account those who have such low regard for the lives of others and the rule of law. We ask all members of the Michigan legislature to support this bill, and encourage other states to adopt similar legislation.

To support this and future anti-crime, pro-police legislation, join our Call to Action (CTA) team and receive email alerts on bills, including which lawmakers to contact. Sign up here.

About

The National Police Association (NPA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting law enforcement through advocacy, education, and the courts. For more information, visit NationalPolice.org.

Contact:
Paula Fitzsimmons
3024691765
[email protected] 

SOURCE The National Police Association