Residents in Smithsburg recently reported what they believed to be two separate police pursuits on Jefferson Boulevard within a two-month span. However, according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), only one of these incidents involved an actual pursuit, while the other did not meet the criteria for a vehicle chase.
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The first incident, which occurred on November 29, 2024, began as a pursuit initiated by the Hagerstown Police Department. The chase extended onto Jefferson Boulevard, with WCSO deputies positioned to assist if necessary. However, no further details were provided regarding the nature of the pursuit or its outcome.
A second reported incident on January 27, 2025, involved a driver in a parking lot who fled upon noticing police officers approaching. WCSO clarified that while the individual attempted to escape, no vehicle pursuit took place.
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According to WCSO’s pursuit policy, deputies may only initiate a vehicle pursuit if specific conditions are met, including the presence of a felony offense, an assault on an officer, or a hit-and-run accident that resulted in injury. Pursuits must also be authorized by a duty officer, who evaluates the risks involved. In situations where public safety concerns outweigh the necessity of apprehension, pursuits are terminated. Additionally, deputies are not permitted to engage in pursuits involving motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), or utility task vehicles (UTVs), unless the suspect poses an immediate risk of serious harm to others.
The sheriff’s office policy also outlines restrictions on deputies joining pursuits initiated by outside agencies. WCSO units may only participate if the reason for the pursuit aligns with the department’s pursuit policy. Otherwise, officers may provide support by positioning themselves to assist if the suspect flees on foot or if additional backup is required.
As police pursuits can pose significant safety risks to officers, suspects, and the public, WCSO emphasizes that all deputies are required to receive initial and annual training on the department’s pursuit policy. Additionally, all vehicle pursuits undergo an administrative review to ensure compliance with established procedures.
Associated documents for this story are available in our Public Information Archive.
Article by multiple RFHC contributors.
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