On Tuesday, a man on a stolen motorcycle led police on a lengthy chase throughout Phoenix.
The chase began at high speeds but quickly decelerated after the man realized that police were not chasing him, but rather they were following him in “surveillance mode.”
However, the man drove the stolen motorcycle for more than two hours, even though police were following him both on the ground and in the air via helicopters.
Currently Known Details of the Chase
At some point on Tuesday, Robert W. Waits, 35, stole a motorcycle from a residence in Mesa. Shortly thereafter, Mesa police initiated a chase after Waits failed to stop for one of their officers.
The chase took police north on Interstate 17 into Anthem, where Waits eventually exited the freeway, made his way through the streets of Cave Creek, and then headed south into Phoenix.
Phoenix police spokesman, Sgt. Trent Crump, said Waits stopped at every red light and cautiously followed all traffic rules while being tailed by Phoenix police officers.
According to Crump, police officers in Phoenix do not initiate aggressive, high-speed chases when they are pursuing someone who is suspected of committing a nonviolent crime.
After several hours, Waits ditched the stolen motorcycle and attempted to flee on foot. He was apprehended by officers immediately upon fleeing.
High-Speed Versus Low-Speed Chases
Phoenix police spokesman Sgt. Crump stated that stealing a motorcycle is not considered a violent crime, but instead is considered a crime against property. Property crimes do not warrant high-speed chases which can put the lives of other motorists or members of the community at risk.
Additionally, the use of helicopters for surveillance from the air is a technique that Phoenix police have used for years to dramatically reduce the number of high-speed pursuits throughout the city and neighboring communities.
Police suspect that following Waits at lower speeds, as well as via helicopter, contributed greatly to his decision to consistently stop at red lights, maintain the speed limit and honor the traffic patterns of other vehicles while being chased.
If you or someone you love has been the victim of a high-speed car accident, contact the Arizona law firm of Phillips Law Group today. Our Mesa auto accident lawyers can help you receive the justice and compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Call 602-222-222 or fill out ourFREE Case Review Form
