Question raised about FHP's pursuit policy after fatal crash in Ybor City

In the wake of a tragic crash in Ybor City resulting in fatalities and injuries, questions are being raised about the pursuit policies of the Florida Highway Patrol. The incident occurred on I-275 and spilled into a residential area, where the pursued car crashed into a crowd. The Tampa Police Department reported that the pursuit was called off just before the fatal crash. This incident has sparked discussions about the safety and appropriateness of police chases. The driver involved, identified as Silas Sampson, was allegedly driving recklessly and evaded a trooper attempting to stop him, leading to the pursuit that ended in the tragic crash. The pursuit has highlighted concerns about FHP's pursuit policy being loosened last year, possibly contributing to an increase in roadway deaths related to FHP pursuits. Anthony Rickman, an attorney, expressed worries about the policy change, pointing out that pursuit restrictions, especially regarding PIT maneuvers, have been removed. Rickman emphasized that pursuits over misdemeanor crimes like reckless driving, as opposed to forcible felonies, could lead to unnecessary risks. Thomas Gleason, a retired police captain involved in PursuitSafety, advised on alternative approaches to pursuits to prevent casualties, suggesting the use of technology and strategies to make arrests later without endangering lives. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the city's strict pursuit policy and placed responsibility on the driver for fleeing. Rickman believes the Ybor City crash may prompt FHP to revisit its pursuit policy, which currently grants troopers significant discretion in high-speed chases. Requests for comments from FHP regarding its pursuit policy and the crash investigation have been unsuccessful.