On the agenda: East Haven meeting — Automated License Plate (May 18)

HONORABLE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
SPECIAL MEETING
May 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM
471 North High Street
East Haven, CT
1. Agenda
Documents:
BOPC-SPECIAL MEETING-05.18.26-AGENDA.PDF
2. Chief's Report (Apr 2026)
Documents:
CHIEFS REPORT-04 APR 2026.PDF
3. Policy 113.1 - Air Purifying Respirator (NEW)
Documents:
113.1 - AIR PURIFYING RESPIRATOR (APR) (NEW).PDF
4. Policy Revision(S) - DRAFT
Documents:
POLICY REVISIONS.PDF

EAST HAVEN DEPARTMENT OF POLICE SERVICES
471 NORTH HIGH STREET • EAST HAVEN, CONNECTICUT 06512
Mayor Joseph A. Carfora

Honorable Board of
Police Commissioners

HONORABLE BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS
SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
MAY 18, 2026 | 7:00 PM
471 NORTH HIGH STREET
EAST HAVEN, CT
1. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Moment of Silence
3. Roll Call
4. Announcement(s)
5. Consider and act upon the approval of the Monthly Meeting minutes of March 31, 2026
6. Consider and act upon the approval of the Monthly Reports (April 2026)
7. Consider and act upon Committee Reports & Recommendations
8. Public Comment
9. Correspondence Received/Sent
10. Department Updates
a. Personnel Matters/Injured Employees
b. Overtime
c. Awards & Commendations
d. Noteworthy News
11. Old Business
12. New Business
a. Consideration and approval of new Policy 113.1 – Air Purifying Respirator (APR)
b. Consideration and approval of revised policies:
i. Policy 208.6 – Internal Affairs and Complaint Intake
ii. Policy 402.6 – Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR)
iii. Policy 414.13 – Motorized Pursuits
Disability Accommodation Notice: Disability accommodation is available upon request. Any person with a disability requiring an accommodation, auxiliary aid or
service, or a modification of policies or procedures to ensure effective communication and access to the public hearings/meetings of the Town of East Haven should
contact the BOPC Clerk via email [email protected] or (203) 468-3214. Accommodation requests should be made as soon as possible and no later
than five (5) business days before the hearing/meeting.

Honorable Board of Police Commissioners – Special Meeting
May 18, 2026
Page 2 of 2
c. Presentation and discussion of the final evaluation of the temporary closure of
Kimberly Avenue related to the Forbes Place/Kimberly Avenue intersection
remediation project (VN Engineering)
d. Interview and consideration of candidates for promotion to Detective (Executive
Session)
13. Adjournment
Respectfully submitted,

Digitally signed by Marsha M. Maldonado
Date: 2026.05.15 14:29:21 -04'00'
Marsha M. Maldonado
Clerk to the Honorable Board of Police Commissioners

East Haven Police Department
Edward R. Lennon, Jr.
Chief of Police

471 North High Street  East Haven, Connecticut 06512
Tel (203) 468-3820
www.easthavenpolice.com

Patrick Tracy
Deputy Chief of Police

Monthly Report
to the

Honorable Board of Police Commissioners
April 2026

Calls Dispatched
Arrestees (Custodial)
Drug-Related Arrest(s)
Infraction(s)
Motor Vehicle Accident(s)
Motor Vehicle Stop(s)
Motor Vehicle Summon(s)
Parking Tag(s)
Sexual Assault Arrest(s)

Mar 25 – Apr 21
2,210
68*
4
63
50
205
5
2
0

Feb 18 – Mar 24
2,604
78*
5
54
73
195
4
0
0

Jan 21 – Feb 17
2,089
45*
5
36
54
182
5
1
0

Dec 10 – Jan 20
2,833
48*
2
32
80
196
2
4
0

Mar 25 – Apr 21
51
43
8
19
19
5

Feb 18 – Mar 24
45
45
4
24
9
8

Jan 21 – Feb 17
56
56
6
22
21
7

Dec 10 – Jan 20
82
82
8
38
24
12

*plus juvenile arrests.

ALARMS
Total Alarms
False Alarms:
Alarm Cancelations**
False Alarms – Business
False Alarms – Residential
False Alarms – Town Building

**prior to dispatching an officer or officer arriving.

Respectfully submitted,

Edward R. Lennon, Jr.
Chief of Police

Integrity Community Accountability Respect Excellence

East Haven Type of Directive:
No. 113.1
Policies & Procedures
Police
Subject/Title:
Issue Date:
Department
May 18, 2026
Air Purifying
Respirator (APR)

Effective Date:

Issuing Authority:

Review Date:

Honorable Board of
Police Commissioners

Annually

References/Attachments:
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134
PowerDMS – Appendices A-C

I.

June 5, 2026

Rescinds:
N/A
Amends:
N/A

PURPOSE

A. The purpose of this Directive is to set forth the policies and procedures of the East Haven
Police Department (EHPD) regarding the selection, use, training, maintenance, and
limitations of Air-Purifying Respirators (APR) utilized by members of the South Central
Regional (SCR) SWAT Team.
B. The APRs utilized by the East Haven Police Department provide protection against
chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) agents, as well as toxic industrial
chemicals (TICs) and toxic industrial materials (TIMs).

II.

III.

POLICY

A. It is the policy of the East Haven Police Department that East Haven officers who are
members of the SCR SWAT Team use Air-Purifying Respirators when exposure to
airborne contaminants is anticipated and when such use is consistent with OSHA
regulations, NIOSH standards, and manufacturer specifications. APRs shall not be used in
atmospheres that are immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) or in oxygen-deficient
environments.

DEFINITIONS

A. Air-Purifying Respirator (APR): A respirator that removes contaminants from the ambient
air through the use of filters, cartridges, or canisters.

113.1 – Air Purifying Respirators (APR)
June 5, 2026
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B. Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH): An atmospheric condition that poses an
immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible adverse health effects, or would impair
an individual’s ability to escape.
C. NIOSH: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
D. Fit Test: A qualitative or quantitative process used to evaluate the fit and seal of a respirator
on an individual wearer.

IV.

GENERAL GUIDELINES AND CONSIDERATIONS

A. This directive applies to all sworn personnel assigned to the SCR SWAT Team who wear
an APR during hazardous operations, emergency response, training and any environment
where airborne contaminants exceed permissible exposure limits (PELs).
B. A current list of East Haven police officers who are members of the SCR SWAT Team
will be maintained in PowerDMS in Appendix A.

V.

PROCEDURES

A. Authorized Uses
1. APRs may be utilized only when:
a. The airborne hazard has been identified or can be reasonably anticipated.
b. The contaminant concentration is within the operational capacity of the respirator.
c. The respirator and cartridge are approved for the specific hazard encountered.
2. Authorized situations include, but are not limited to:
a. Chemical agent deployments (e.g., OC/CS).
b. Barricaded or fortified subjects involving airborne irritants.
c. Non-IDLH clandestine drug lab investigations.
d. Smoke or particulate environments where oxygen levels are verified as safe.
3. User Seal Check
a. Users must perform positive and negative pressure checks each time the APR is
donned.
4. Users must:
a. Wear the respirator in all designated contaminated areas.
b. Leave the area if breathing becomes difficult or if the respirator malfunctions.
B. Prohibited Uses
1. APRs shall not be used:
a. In IDLH atmospheres.
113.1 – Air Purifying Respirators (APR)
June 5, 2026
Page 2 of 6

b. In Oxygen-deficient environments (APR restriction).
c. When the airborne hazard is unknown and cannot be reasonably assessed.
d. With facial hair that interferes with the seal.
C. Respirator and Cartridge Selection
1. Only NIOSH-approved respirators and cartridges shall be issued and used.
2. Cartridge selection shall be based on the specific hazard anticipated.
3. A listing of current authorized filters will be maintained in PowerDMS in Appendix B.
4. The APR utilized shall be approved for:
a. CBRN threats
b. Toxic industrial chemicals and materials (TICs/TIMs)
c. First responder, law enforcement and counter-terror environments
5. Filter Change Schedules
a. Filters must be replaced when:
1) Expired, damaged, or compromised cartridges shall not be used and shall be
removed from service.
2) At the end of service life indicated by manufacturer data sheets.
3) If the humidity indicator on top of the filter turns blue.
4) If breathing resistance increases.
5) When exposed to chemical, biological, or radiological agents or unknown or
high-level contaminants.
6) At least annually, the Program Administrator will confirm the availability of a
sufficient number of APRs that are in date and in good condition.
D. Storage
1. Store the APR in a clean, dry, temperature-controlled environment.
2. Use the approved mask carrier to prevent lens damage.
E. Medical Evaluation
1. All personnel required to wear APRs shall complete a medical questionnaire and, if
required, undergo further examination by a licensed healthcare provider before being

113.1 – Air Purifying Respirators (APR)
June 5, 2026
Page 3 of 6

fit-tested or assigned a respirator. OSHA form 3790 must be completed and reviewed
by a Physician or Licensed Health Care Professional (PLHCP).
2. Annual medical re-evaluation shall be conducted or whenever health changes may
affect respirator use in accordance with OSHA requirements.
3. Medical clearance documentation shall be maintained in the member’s medical file.
F. Fit Testing
1. SWAT personnel shall successfully complete an annual fit test for each make, model,
and size of respirator issued and again whenever a new size or model is assigned.
2. Personnel with facial hair or conditions that interfere with the respirator seal shall not
wear tight-fitting APRs.
3. Only qualitative or quantitative OSHA-approved methods may be used.
4. Users must perform positive and negative pressure checks each time the APR is
donned.
5. Fit testing records shall be documented and maintained in the member’s medical file.
6. Proper procedures for fit testing and retesting the current model of APR are maintained
in PowerDMS in Appendix C.
G. Training
1. Initial and annual refresher training shall be provided and shall include:
a. Respiratory hazards
b. Purpose and limitations of the APRs
c. Donning and doffing procedures
d. Emergency procedures
e. User seal checks
f. Respirator limitations and capabilities
g. Cartridge/filter selection and replacement schedules
h. Recognition of respirator malfunction or failure
i. Cleaning, storage, and inspection procedures
2. No member shall utilize an APR without documented training.

113.1 – Air Purifying Respirators (APR)
June 5, 2026
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3. The Program Administrator shall document the training.
H. Inspection, Maintenance and Storage
1. APRs shall be inspected before and after each use.
2. Any defective or malfunctioning equipment shall be removed from service
immediately.
3. Respirators shall be cleaned and disinfected after use in accordance with manufacturer
guidelines. Manufacturer’s recommendations for the current model of APR are
maintained in PowerDMS in Appendix C.
4. APRs and cartridges shall be stored in a clean, dry environment protected from
contamination, damage, and extreme temperatures.
I. Responsibilities
1. Program Administrator
a. The Department liaison supervisor assigned to SCR-SWAT shall be the Program
Administrator.
b. Contact information for the Program Administrator will be maintained in
PowerDMS in Appendix A.
c. Ensure compliance with this directive and OSHA 1910.134.
d. Ensure appropriate equipment, training, and resources are provided.
e. Oversee annual fit testing, training and medical evaluations.
f. Maintain documentation and records.
2. Supervisors
a. Enforce proper respirator use.
b. Ensure availability of approved APR filters compatible with operational hazards.
3. Individual SWAT Members
a. Properly use and maintain assigned respirators.
b. Report damaged, defective, or missing equipment immediately.
c. Comply with all medical, training, and fit testing requirements.
J. Program Evaluation
1. The Program Administrator will review:
a. Incident reports

113.1 – Air Purifying Respirators (APR)
June 5, 2026
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b. Inspection logs
c. Employee feedback
K. Documentation and Records
1. All records related to medical evaluations, fit testing, inspection and maintenance logs
and training shall be maintained in accordance with State and Federal regulations
and/or laws. The Department will maintain fit testing records at least until the next test
is conducted and medical evaluations will be added to the member’s medical file.

113.1 – Air Purifying Respirators (APR)
June 5, 2026
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East Haven
Police
Department

Type of Directive:

Policies & Procedures
Subject/Title:

Issue Date:

Internal Affairs
Officer and
Complaints

May 18September 26, 20263

Issuing Authority:

Review Date:

Honorable Board of
Police Commissioners

Annually

References/Attachments:
Policies and Procedures #: 201, 209
EHPSCC Policies and Procedures #: 1002
Collective Bargaining Agreement(s)

I.

No. 208.56

Effective Date:
June 5October 15, 20263

Rescinds:
208.54
Amends:
N/A

PURPOSE

A. The purpose of this directive is to set forth the policies and procedures of the East Haven
Police Department (EHPD) regarding:
1. Departmental policy regarding the duties and responsibilities of the Internal Affairs
Officer (IAO).
2. It sets forth Departmental procedures and guidelines involving all aspects of the
Internal Affairs investigative process.
3. The term Internal Affairs Officer and Professional Standards Officer are synonymous
and will be referred to as Internal Affairs Officer (IAO) in all documents.
3.4.Departmental policy regarding the acceptance, processing and investigation of
complaints alleging misconduct or malfeasance committed by members of the East
Haven Police Department.

II.

POLICY

A. It is the policy of the East Haven Police Department to investigate honestly and completely
all complaints or allegations of misconduct or malfeasance against the Department or its
employees, regardless of the source of such complaints, in an effort to ensure the public’s
support for and cooperation with its Police Department. The refusal to accept a misconduct
complaint, discouraging the filing of a misconduct complaint, or providing false or
misleading information about filing a misconduct complaint, shall be grounds for
208.65 – Internal Affairs Officer and Complaints
JuneOctober 15, 20263
Page 1 of 22

discipline, up to and including termination. The Department shall impose any disciplinary
or non-disciplinary corrective actions that may be warranted in a timely manner.

B. All employees shall report apparent misconduct by another employee to a supervisor or
directly to the IAO immediately or as soon as practical for review and investigation.
The reporting party shall notify a supervisor or the IAO in writing. Where apparent
misconduct is reported to a supervisor, the supervisor shall immediately document and
report this information to the IAO. Failure to report or document apparent misconduct or
criminal behavior shall be grounds for discipline, up to and including termination of
employment.
C. The Department’s obligation to its own members requires that all investigations and
disciplinary proceedings be conducted in a fair manner, consistent with constitutional
standards and the current collective bargaining agreement.

III.

DEFINITIONS

A. Complainant: Any person who files a complaint regarding misconduct or malfeasance on
the part of an agency employee.
1.B.
Complaint: An expression of dissatisfaction that contains an allegation of employee
misconduct or malfeasance, which if proven to be true, demonstrates misconduct as
outlined in the East Haven Police Department Policies and Procedures.

C. Department Review (DR) Number: A unique alphanumerical code used to identify and
track citizen complaint investigations.
D. Discipline: Adverse action taken by the agency against any employee as the result of a
sustained internal affairs investigation including, but not limited to, a written reprimand,
suspension, demotion or dismissal.
E. Employee: Any person employed by the agency, whether sworn or non-sworn.
F. Internal Affairs Division: The designated division, unit or person with primary
responsibility to conduct investigations of administrative or Citizen Complaints of
misconduct or malfeasance.
G. Malfeasance: Illegal or dishonest activity especially by a public official.

208.65 – Internal Affairs Officer and Complaints
JuneOctober 15, 20263
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H. Misconduct: Any act or omission by an employee that is illegal or which violates
established policy.

III.IV.

C.I. Supervisor: Includes those holding the rank of Sergeant or higher.

GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS AND GUIDELINES

A. If a person believes he/she has been mistreated by, or has not received adequate service
from the Department, he/she has a legal right to express dissatisfaction with the
Department.
B. No member of the Department will attempt to interfere or influence a person’s right to file
a complaint about the service this Department provides to him/her. Complaints will be
thoroughly and impartially reviewed and investigated.
C. The Department adheres to the principles of integrity and professionalism as cornerstones
of community trust-building. Because officers occupy a position of trust and confidence in
their communities and are afforded unique authority to carry out their duties, any excessive
use of that authority, abuse of power, or failure to fulfill their duties can erode public trust
and reduce or destroy their credibility within the communities they serve. Every member
of the Department is accountable for representing the entire agency and for his/her personal
conduct.
D. Nothing in this directive shall be deemed to diminish any protections or rights that
employees have under a collective bargaining agreement, constitution or law.

IV.

PROCEDURES

A. Public Information and Access
1. The Department shall develop and implement a program to ensure broad knowledge
throughout the East Haven community about the procedures of how to make
misconduct complaints, and the availability of effective mechanisms for making
misconduct complaints. The requirements below shall be incorporated into this
program.
1.
2. The Department shall make copies of the policy, complaint forms and informational
materials, including brochures and posters, available at appropriate government
properties;, including the Department’s headquarters and website, Town Hall, and the
public library. Individuals shall be able to submit misconduct complaints through the
Department’s website, and the website shall include this directive, complaint forms and
information regarding how to file misconduct complaints. This information should
include relevant phone numbers and any addresses where complaints can be made.
3. At the locations listed above, the Department shall post and maintain a permanent
placard describing the external complaint process that includes relevant contact
information, such as telephone numbers, email addresses, and internet sites.
208.65 – Internal Affairs Officer and Complaints
JuneOctober 15, 20263
Page 3 of 22

4. Complaint forms and related informational materials shall be made available and
posted in English and Spanish.
5. All officers shall carry complaint forms, containing basic complaint information, in
their Department vehicles at all times.
a. Officers shall also provide complaint forms, their names, and badge numbers upon
request.
b. If an individual objects to an officer's conduct, that officer will inform the
individual of his/her right to make a complaint and shall provide the complaint
form, informational brochure, and the officer's name and badge number.
c. If the individual indicates that he/she would like to make a complaint, the officer
shall immediately inform a supervisor.
B. Acceptance, Filing and Intake of Complaints Intake
B.
1. All persons are encouraged to bring forward legitimate complaints regarding possible
misconduct or malfeasance of employees of this agency. All sworn and civilian
employees shall be required to accept a complaint alleging misconduct or malfeasance
by agency personnel.
3. Sworn and civilian employees who receive a complaint about their own conduct shall
immediately refer the complaint to a supervisor.
2.
3. The use of a standardized form to record complaints shall be implemented. Each
complaint shall be assigned a Department Review (DR) number to track complaints
and a copy of this form shall be filed in a separate Complaint File.
4. Complaints against any employee will be accepted and documented from any source,
whether the filed complaint is filedmade in writing, verbally, in person, by mail, by email, by facsimile, electronically, over the telephone (or TDD) or by any other means.
Anonymous and third party complaints will be accepted.
a. There shall be no retaliation in any form by any member of this agency directed at
an individual who makes a complaint.
b. During the complaint intake process, no questions shall be asked of a complainant
regarding their immigration status.
c. Officers who withhold information, fail to cooperate with department
investigations or who fail to report alleged misconduct or malfeasance of
employees to a supervisor shall be subject to disciplinary action.

208.65 – Internal Affairs Officer and Complaints
JuneOctober 15, 20263
Page 4 of 22

3. If complaints are received by mail, all correspondence received containing allegations
shall be forwarded to the Chief of Police or the Chiefshis/her designee where they will
be officially received. These complaints shall be assigned a Department Review (DR)
number. A letter of acknowledgment must be prepared advising the complainant that
the matter is being investigated and that they will be contacted by the investigator
assigned.
5.
6. Individuals are encouraged, but not required, to submit their complaints in person in
order for the recipient to obtain as much information as possible after the incident. In
cases in which the complainant cannot file the report in person, departmental personnel
may arrange to interview complainants at a convenient time and location, including at
the individual’s home, place of business or hospital in order to complete the report.
7. No complaint will be refused because the complainant does not wish to sign a
complaint or identify himself. Complaints will be accepted from anonymous sources,
juveniles and persons under arrest in police custody.

8.

All employees must courteously inform an individual of his/her right to make a
complaint if the individual objects to an employee’s conduct. Employees have a duty
to assist any person who wishes to file a citizen’s complaint by documenting the
information and allegations they provide, advising the individual how to proceed, and
by promptly putting the complainant in contact with a supervisor who can assist them
with filing their complaint. All employees will assist those who express a desire to
lodge complaints against any member of the agency. This includes:
a. Calling a supervisor to the scene to conduct a preliminary inquiry and document
the complaint.
b. Explaining the Ddepartment’s complaint procedures.
c. Providing complaint form(s) and/or complaint filing information and/or giving
instructions as to where the complaint forms may be obtained.
d. Ensuring that complainants who are unable to read, write or understand the English
language with sufficient proficiency to fill out the complaint form, or to be
interviewed regarding their knowledge of the incident complained of, receive
adequate language assistance to permit them to file their complaint and assist, as
needed, in the investigation thereof. The name and identifying information of any
person providing such language assistance to a complainant shall be recorded on
the complaint form or in the body of the report.

9. All personnel who are approached by a person seeking to make a complaint will, when
possible, call a supervisor, obtain a brief description of the allegation, record contact
information from the complainant (if provided) and the supervisor shall then obtain a
Department Review (DR) nNumber which should will be provided to the complainant.
208.65 – Internal Affairs Officer and Complaints
JuneOctober 15, 20263
Page 5 of 22

10.

If a supervisor is not readily available, the officer will inform the complainant that they
will be contacted by a supervisor or the person or unit assigned to conduct internal
affairs investigations by the next business day.

11. All complaints shall be documented to include the date, time, location, and nature of
the complaint, complainant’s information (name, address, date of birth, telephone
number, or other contact information, (if provided), date and time the complaint was
received, and the name, rank and/or title of the person receiving the complaint.

12.

The withdrawal of a complaint does not prohibit the agency from completing an
investigation.

13. Walk-in complaints shall be referred to a supervisor who shall receive and properly
document the complaint. The supervisor shall then forward the complaint to the Internal
Affairs Officer. The complaint will be assigned a Department Review (DR) number.
14. Telephone complaints shall be referred to a supervisor or the Internal Affairs Officer.
The party who receives the complaint shall obtain the details of the complaint as soon
as practicable, dispatch a supervisor to the complainant’s location, and proceed as
described in the foregoing paragraph.
15. No employee shall refuse to assist any person who wishes to file a citizen complaint or
discourage, interfere with, hinder, delay, or obstruct a person from making a citizen
complaint.
16.

Complaints by Persons Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
a. When a person who is noticeably intoxicated or impaired wishes to make a
complaint, he/she shall be encouraged to wait until the earliest opportunity after
he/she has regained sobriety to do so. When the supervisor determines the
circumstances require immediate action, preliminary details of a complaint should
be taken by a sSupervisor, when available, regardless of the person’s sobriety. In
that event, the Iinternal Aaffairs Officer should re-interview the person after he/she
has regained sobriety.

17. Delayed or Untimely Complaints
a. Complaints of misconduct or malfeasance shall be accepted regardless of when the
alleged misconduct or malfeasance is alleged to have occurred. However, the
timing of a complaint is one of the circumstances that the agency may consider in
determining whether misconduct or malfeasance can be reliably substantiated and,
if so, the nature and extent of discipline to be imposed. Where a delay in reporting
alleged misconduct may call into question the veracity of the complainant, or has
resulted in the loss or destruction of evidence or the inability to locate witnesses
208.65 – Internal Affairs Officer and Complaints
JuneOctober 15, 20263
Page 6 of 22

due to the passage of time, the facts and circumstances should be detailed in the
report.
b. Although allegations of criminal behavior may be made past the expiration of the
applicable statute of limitations and criminal prosecution may no longer be
possible, a criminal violator may still be held accountable administratively.
18. Complainants Who Fear Retaliation Associated with Filing a Complaint
4.a. If a complainant expresses fears of retaliation as a result of filing a complaint, they
must be assured that those fears will be taken seriously. Complainants should be
asked to provide the basis for their concerns, if possible, and the information
provided should be noted in the complaint. This will allow the unit, supervisor or
Iinternal Aaffairs Officer to be aware of these fears and develop reasonable
strategies to assist the complainant in dispelling those fears.
Complaints against any employee will be accepted and documented from any source,
whether the filed complaint is made in writing, verbally, in person, by mail, by e-mail,
by facsimile, electronically, or over the telephone (or TDD) or by any other means. or
aAnonymous and third party complaints will be acceptedly.
There shall be no retaliation in any form by any member of this agency directed at
an individual who makes a complaint.
During the complaint intake process, no questions shall be asked of a complainant
regarding their immigration status.
Officers who withhold information, fail to cooperate with department
investigations or who fail to report alleged misconduct or malfeasance of
employees to a supervisor shall be subject to disciplinary action.
5. Individuals are encouraged, but not required, to submit their complaints in person in
order for the recipient to obtain as much information as possible after the incident. In
cases in which the complainant cannot file the report in person, departmental personnel
may arrange to interview complainants at a convenient time and location, including at
the individual’s home, place of business or hospital in order to complete the report.
5. No complaint will be refused because the complainant does not wish to sign a
complaint or identify himself. Complaints will be accepted from anonymous sources,
juveniles and persons under arrest in police custody.
6.19. Field Iinterviews by Ssupervisors.
a. When a complainant in the field wishes to file a complaint expressing allegations
of misconduct or malfeasance, a supervisor shall report to the location and
immediately offer to interview the complaint. The complainant shall be requested
to await the arrival of the supervisor. If a supervisor is unavailable, or the
complainant is unable to await the arrival of a supervisor, the complainant should
208.65 – Internal Affairs Officer and Complaints
JuneOctober 15, 20263
Page 7 of 22

be informed that he/she may respond to the East Haven Policeagency
Departmentheadquarters to make his/her complaint. The supervisor shall inform
the complainant about the complaint investigation process and what to expect.
b. When a supervisor receives a misconduct complaint in the field alleging that
misconduct has just occurred, the supervisor shall gather all relevant information
and evidence and provide this information and evidence to the IAO by documenting
the complaint in Law Enforcement Administration System (LEAS) Department
Review (DR) reporting module. This information includes the names and contact
information for all complainants and witnesses, the names of all officers and
employees on the scene at the time of the alleged misconduct, and any available
physical evidence such as voluntarily provided video or audio recordings, or
documentation of the existence of such recordings where the witness chooses not
to provide the recording. The supervisor shall take photographs of apparent injuries
or the absence thereof.
c. The Department shall equip all supervisors with cellular telephones and/or Body
Worn Cameras (BWC) for the purposes of recording statements in the field.
d. If a witness and/or complainant declines to be video and/or audio recorded, the
supervisor should inform the witness and/or complainant that there are potential
benefits to recording the interview; including the fact that a recording will create a
clear and complete record of what the witness and/or complainant said during the
interview.
1) The refusal to be video and/or audio recorded shall be captured on video and/or
audio recording prior to turning off the recording device.
e. If a witness and/or complainant initially agreed to be video and/or audio recorded
during the interview and later changes his/her mind, the supervisor should inform
the witness and/or complainant that there are potential benefits to recording the
entire interview, including the fact that a recording will create a clear and complete
record of what was said during the entire interview.
f. If the witness and/or complainant initially declined to be video and/or audio
recorded during the interview, and later changes his/her mind, once the recording
has started, the supervisor should attempt to elicit and document any and all nonrecorded statements previously made by the witness and/or complainant.
g. A copy of the recording shall be forwarded to the IAO.
h. If the incident is serious in nature and the IAO is responding, and time allows, the
supervisor should defer taking the recorded statement to the IAO. If the witness
and/or complainant requests giving the statement immediately the supervisor shall
do so.

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7.20. Misconduct complaints shall be forwarded to the IAO before the end of the tour of
duty of the officer receiving the complaint.
8.21. Upon the receipt of a complaint, any supervisor or the IAO shall promptly assign a
DR case number to the complaint, which shall be provided to the complainant at the
time the complaint is made. Where a misconduct complaint is received in the field, a
supervisor shall obtain the DR case number and provide this identifier to the
complainant.
9.22. The IAO will maintain paper and electronic files of all citizens’ complaints. The
IAO will investigate or oversee the investigation of all complaints. This information
will be evaluated as part of the Early Intervention System (EIS) as described in
Department Policies and Procedures.
10.23. The IAO shall track allegations of discriminatory policing as a separate category of
misconduct complaints.
11.24. The Chief of Police or his/her designee and the IAO shall be notified as soon as
feasible by the on-duty supervisor of all allegations against an employee involving the
possible commission of a criminal offense, serious misconduct, neglect of duty, or other
serious violations of Policies and Procedures. If the IAO is on duty, the shift
commander is to notify the IAO of the complaint.
12.25. If a supervisor concludes that an alleged criminal conduct by an employee requires
immediate departmental response when the IAO is off duty, the IAO should be notified
through the chain of command to respond immediately to interview the complainant or
to the scene of the alleged offense.
13.26. When the IAO is off duty, all complaints not involving alleged criminal conduct
shall be referred to the on-duty supervisor. The supervisor shall ensure that the
complainant is provided with a Citizen’s Complaint fForm and the necessary assistance
to complete it. This form will be forwarded to the attention of the IAO no later than
0900 hours the next business day the IAO is on duty.
14.27. When the Department becomes aware of pending civil or criminal litigation against
any employee involving allegations of misconduct by the employee, which, if proven,
would result in discipline under a just cause standard, the IAO will initiate a timely
investigation.
C. Assignment of Investigations
1. Within three (3) business days of the receipt of a misconduct complaint, the IAO shall
determine whether the complaint will be assigned to the employee(s)' supervisor(s) or
retained by the IAO for an administrative investigation. The IAO shall also determine
whether the misconduct complaint warrants a referral to the State’s Attorney's Office
and/or USAO for a criminal investigation.

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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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2. The IAO shall use a complaint classification protocol that is allegation-based rather
than anticipated outcome based to guide the IAO in determining where a complaint
should be assigned. This complaint classification protocol shall ensure that the IAO
investigates allegations including the following:.
a. Serious misconduct, including but not limited to the following:.
1) Criminal misconduct.
2) Unreasonable use of force.
3) Biased policing.
4) False arrest or planting evidence.
5) Untruthfulness/false statements.
6) Unlawful search.
7) Retaliation.
8) Sexual misconduct.
9) Domestic violence.
10) Theft.
b. Supervisory misconduct.
c. Allegations of employee misconduct made during criminal prosecutions or civil
lawsuits.
d. Any other violations as determined by the Chief of Police.
3. Complaints Handled by Supervisors: Complaints of harassment, improper demeanor
and minor infractions will be forwarded from the IAO to the accused employee’s
supervisor to investigate the allegation of misconduct. The investigation will be
completed and returned to the IAO within thirty (30) calendar days.
D. The IAO Duties and Responsibilities
1. The Chief of Police will designate an officer as the IAO. The IAO will report directly
to the Deputy Chief of Police. The Chief of Police will assign other members to this
section as deemed appropriate.
1. The Office of the Chief of Police has primary oversight and authority over investigation
of complaints made against employees. Upon receipt of a complaint, the Chief of Police
or his/her designee will assure that the complaint is processed and investigated
appropriately including being assigning the complainted to the appropriate division,
208.65 – Internal Affairs Officer and Complaints
JuneOctober 15, 20263
Page 10 of 22

2.

unit, person or designated supervisor for investigation through the appropriate chain of
command. The Chief of Police will designate an officer as the IAO. The IAO will report
directly to the Deputy Chief of Police. The Chief of Police will assign other members
to this section as deemed appropriate.

2.3.Formal Investigations.
a. The IAO shall beis responsible for:
1) iInvestigating complaints involving employees.
2) Conducting a thorough, fair and impartial investigation of every complaint
received regardless of the method of receipt.
3) Investigating and determining the nature, facts and circumstances of every
complaint.
4) Reporting to a supervisor up to and including the Chief of Police, if warranted,
the results of the investigation, any recommendations and the resolution of that
investigation.
5) Identifying and recommending forrecommending appropriate investigation and
prosecution when criminal misconduct is discovered on the part of any
individual during the course of an internal affairs investigation.
a.6) Preparing suggested revisions of Department Policies and Procedures where
existing deficiencies have been identified as a contributing factor to
misconduct.
b. All employees of the Department are to fully cooperate with the IAO, including
truthfully answering all inquiries relating to an investigation, appearing for an
interview when requested, and providing all requested documents and evidence.
3.4.The IAO is responsible for the investigation and the preparation of complaint reports.
He/she will keep the Chief of Police informed of any serious or significant complaints
against any Departmental employee. The IAO will have additional duties and
responsibilities as followfollows:
a. Maintain a complaint log.
b. Maintain a central file for complaints in a secured location.
c. Conduct regular audits of complaints to ascertain the need for changes in training
or policy.
d. Maintain and review records and files pertaining to the Early Intervention System,
Use of Force, Bias Free Policing Violations, Firearms Discharge, Vehicle Pursuits,
and Strip Search reports.
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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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e. Maintaining a current photo of every employee of the Department.
f. Maintain and audit the Policies and Procedures manual.
5. The IAO is to see to it that any employee against whom a complaint is made is promptly
notified in writing in accordance with his/her collective bargaining agreement and
receives a copy of the Citizen’s Complaint form, unless the IAO determines that such
notification would hamper or impede the investigation.
a. Where prior notification of the subject of a complaint is reasonably likely to impede
the progress of an investigation, the Chief of Police may direct in writing that such
notification be delayed, stating the reasons therefore and the anticipated extent of
the delay.
b. Nothing in this policy precludes the Chief of Police from referring an internal
affairs investigation to an outside agency if such action would be in the best interest
of the municipality and of justice.
c. In the absence of an applicable collective bargaining agreement, an employee who
is the subject of a complaint shall be notified in writing within five (5) business
days of the receipt of such complaint including:
1) The fact that a complaint has been made
2) The identity of the complainant, if known
3) The substance of the complaint
4) The law or policy that is alleged to have been violated
5) The date upon which the investigation is expected to be completed

6.

The complainant is to be contacted by the IAO or investigating supervisor within fortyeight (48) hours of the IAO or investigating supervisor’s receipt of the citizen complaint
and should be informed of the status of the investigation. Complainants shall be notified
in writing within five (5) business days of receipt that:
a. Their complaint has been received by the Department and is currently pending.
b. That a DR number has been assigned (including the assigned number).
c. That they will be informed in writing of the outcome of the complaint promptly
following conclusion of the investigation.
4.d.That they may contact the designated investigator (Identify by name, telephone
and/or email) at any time for further information while the investigation is pending.

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5.7.All investigations are subject to the following requirements:.
a. The Department shall respond to each complaint within forty-eight (48) hours (not
including weekends and holidays) and shall resolve each stage of a complaint
investigation in a reasonable time frame.
b. All investigations handled by the IAO or the Chief of Police’s designee shall be
completed within ninety (90) days of receiving the complaint.
c. Upon a showing of good cause, investigations may receive extensions of up to thirty
(30) days for each occurrence upon approval of the Chief of Police.
1) Requests for extensions must be in writing to the Chief of Police.
d. A misconduct investigation shall not be closed simply because the complaint is
withdrawn or the alleged victim is unwilling or unable to provide additional
information beyond the initial complaint, or because the complainant pled guilty or
was found guilty of an offense.
e. Each complainant will be kept informed periodically regarding the status of the
investigation. The complainant will be notified of the outcome of the investigation,
in writing, within ten (10) business days of the completion of the investigation,
including regarding whether any disciplinary or non-disciplinary action was taken.
f. All witness statements shall be documented in their entirety.
g. Where the alleged misconduct is particularly serious or information from an
employee or other witness may be necessary to resolve an allegation, the
investigator shall conduct an in-person interview of the employee or other witness.
Each employee, witness, and/or complainant shall be interviewed separately.
1) The IAO shall deploy an Authorized Interpreter with no involvement in the
underlying complaint when taking statements or conducting interviews of any
complainant and/or witness with limited English proficiency LEP complainant
and/or witness.
2) If the Authorized Interpreter is a Department employee, he/she must hold a rank
of Sergeant or higher.
l. The complainant is to be contacted by the IAO or investigating supervisor within
forty-eight (48) hours of the IAO or investigating supervisor’s receipt of the citizen
complaint and should be informed of the status of the investigation.
h. Absent exigent circumstances, the complainant shall be interviewed in person, to
obtain his/her detailed account of the incident that gave rise to the complaint. The
interview is to be recorded in its entirety if there is no specific, documented
objection by the complainant.

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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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i. The complainant should be informed that he/she has the right to submit a list of all
witnesses or other persons who support his/her account. The IAO or investigating
supervisor is to make best efforts to contact each of the individuals on the list and
record their statements.
j. The subject employee is to be interviewed in person and is to be informed of his/her
right to submit lists of witnesses and of other persons who support his/her account
and evidentiary items in the same manner and with the same rights as provided for
the complainant above. The subject employee and/or the complainant are to be
given receipts for any evidentiary items they submit.
k. The interview of the subject employee is to be carried out in strict compliance with
the investigation interview procedure described herein.
l.

If an interview with the complainant provides adequate information that the
reported act(s) does not require additional investigation (i.e., incontrovertible facts
on a traffic citation, officer demonstrably followed department policies and
procedures in a situation, etc.), a DR report will be completed. The report will
provide a synopsis of the complaint and the notation that the complainant was
advised that there would be no further investigation. The completed report will be
forwarded to the IAO.

E. Investigation Interview Procedures
1. If an employee is to be interviewed in connection with an internal affairs investigation,
such interview shall be conducted in accordance with the interview procedure
contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the employee’s bargaining
agent and the Town, along with applicable State and Federal law.
2. The subject employee shall not be compelled to provide a statement to administrative
investigators where there is a potential criminal investigation or prosecution of the
employee;, until consultation with the criminal investigative agency (i.e. State’s
Attorney's Office, Office of the Inspector General, or USAO) is provided and with
approval by the Chief of Police. The Department, the Town, and the State’s Attorney's
Office shall develop and implement protocols to ensure that the criminal and
administrative investigations are kept appropriately separate after a subject employee
has provided a compelled statement.
F. Internal Affairs Procedures
1. The Chief of Police shall not be authorized to personally conduct an investigation of
officer misconduct or violation of policy, nor prevent the conduct of such an
investigation. A misconduct complaint investigation may not be conducted by any
employee who used force during the incident; whose conduct led to the injury of a
person; who authorized the conduct that led to the reported incident or complaint; or
who was a witness to the incident leading to the allegation of misconduct.
2. In conducting investigations of alleged employee misconduct, all appropriate
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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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investigative techniques and methods should be employed consistent with legal
requirements. Internal affairs administrative investigations should be conducted with
the same degree of professional competence as is devoted to a criminal investigation.
3. In each investigation, the Department shall consider all relevant evidence including
circumstantial, direct and physical evidence, and make credibility determinations based
upon that evidence. There will be no automatic preference for an employee's statement
over a non-employee's statement, nor will the Department disregard a witness'
statement merely because the witness has some connection to the complainant or
because of any criminal history.
4. During its investigation, the Department may take into account the criminal history of
a complainant that involves a crime of dishonesty. The Department may also take into
account the record of any involved officers who have been determined to have been
deceptive or untruthful in any legal proceeding, internal affairs investigation, or other
investigation. The Department shall make efforts to resolve material inconsistencies
between witness statements.
5. The IAO shall determine whether a complaint warrants a referral to another
investigative or law enforcement agency.
6. No employee shall be required to submit to any medical examination as part of an
internal affairs and/or administrative investigation as outlined in this directive except
as otherwise provided in the collective bargaining agreement between the Town and
employee’s bargaining agent.
a. No employee shall be required to submit to a laboratory examination except:
1) As otherwise outlined in the collective bargaining agreement between the Town
and the employee’s collective bargaining agent.
2) Where reasonable suspicion exists to support an allegation that such employee
has engaged in misconduct, which, if proven would result in discipline under a
just cause standard.
b. Any such laboratory test required shall be limited to a non-invasive procedure, and
narrowly tailored to produce only the specific information directly related to the
investigation.
c. The Department will bear the expense of such examination or laboratory test. This
sub-section shall not be deemed to supersede specific provisions of applicable
collective bargaining agreements. Non-invasive procedures shall be deemed to
include forensic tests such as fingerprints, paraffin, shoe, ballistics and clothing
tests, etc., but shall not include any DNA testing.
d. Employees may be photographed for the records of the Department, at the
Department’s expense, at the time of appointment or at any other time deemed
necessary by the Chief of Police.
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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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e. No employee shall be required to stand in a lineup in connection with any internal
affairs investigation.
f. An employee’s personal property, including his/her home, car, and other property,
is protected from unreasonable search and seizure under the U.S. Constitution and
Connecticut Constitution. Any evidence illegally obtained may not be used as
evidence in an administrative proceeding.
g. Department property furnished to the officer, such as Department issued cellular
telephones, computers, desks, lockers, or vehicles, etc., in which it is clearly
understood in advance that an officer has “no expectation of privacy,” and may be
searched without a warrant.
h. The Department may not compel the subject of an internal investigation to produce
personal financial documents or information except where reasonable suspicion
exists to support an allegation that such officer has engaged in misconduct, which,
if proven, could result in discipline under a just cause standard. Any such request
for documents or information must be narrowly tailored to produce only the specific
information directly related to the allegation.
i. No employee shall be compelled to undergo a polygraph examination in connection
with an internal affairs investigation except as otherwise expressly permitted by
Connecticut General Statutes.
j. Nothing in this directive or other Department Policies and Procedures shall hamper
an employee's obligation to provide a public safety statement regarding a workrelated incident or activity. The Department shall make clear that all employees
statements in incident reports, arrest reports, use of force reports and similar
documents, and statements made in interviews such as those conducted in
conjunction with the Department’s routine use of force review and investigation
process, are part of each employee's routine professional duties and are not
compelled statements.
k. Where an employee believes that providing a verbal or written statement will be
self-incriminating, the employee shall affirmatively state this and shall not be
compelled to provide a statement without prior consultation with the criminal
investigative or other law enforcement agency, and approval by the Chief of Police.
7 . If at any time during the complaint intake or investigation the IAO or investigating
supervisor determines that there may have been criminal conduct on the part of any
employee, the investigator shall immediately notify the Chief of Police and shall
consult with the State’s Attorney's Office, USAO and/or the local office of the FBI
regarding the initiation of a criminal investigation, as appropriate.
a. Where an allegation is investigated criminally, the IAO shall continue with the
administrative investigation of the allegation, except that he/she may delay or
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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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decline to conduct interviews until completion of the criminal investigation;
unless, after consultation with the investigating agency and the Chief of Police,
such interviews are deemed appropriate.
G. Tracking Investigations
1. The Department shall track, as a separate category of misconduct complaints,
allegations of discriminatory policing, along with characteristics of the complainants.
The Department shall ensure that complaints of discriminatory policing are captured
and tracked appropriately, even if the complainant does not specifically label the
misconduct as such.
2. IAO shall use the Department’s centralized numbering and tracking system for all
misconduct complaints. Upon the receipt of a complaint, the IAO shall promptly assign
a numerical identifier to the complaint, which shall be provided to the complainant at
the time the complaint is made. Where a misconduct complaint is received in the field,
a supervisor shall obtain a DR case number and provide this identifier to the
complainant.
3. The Department centralized numbering and tracking system shall maintain accurate
and reliable data. This regarding will include the number, nature, and status of all
misconduct complaints, from initial intake to final disposition. This will also track,
including investigation timeliness and notification to the complainant of the interim
status as well asnd final disposition of the investigation. This system shall be used to
determine the status of complaints, and to confirm that a complaint was received, as
well asand for periodic assessment of compliance with the Department Policies and
Procedures, including requirements on the timeliness of administrative investigations.
H. Supervisory Authority
1. Supervisors bear a distinct responsibility for the proper conduct, discipline and duty
performance of all personnel under his/her supervision. In addition, the supervisor is
accountable for failure to take warranted disciplinary action.
2. A supervisor’s familiarity with his/her personnel allows him/her the best opportunity
to observe and foresee disciplinary problems and to determine the most appropriate
methods to deal with them.
3. Supervisors must exercise judgment in any application of disciplinary action. For
example, the use of counseling or verbal reprimand by a supervisor may avert a
potential disciplinary problem or prevent a minor problem from escalating.
4. Supervisors have the authority to relieve from duty a subordinate employee whom they
deem unfit for duty consistent with the collective bargaining agreement between the
employee’s bargaining agent and the Town.
5. The following is an outline by rank and command level regarding the authority of
supervisors to discipline their subordinates.:
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a. Sergeant: - Has the authority to praise, counsel, evaluate and recommend for
commendation. He/she also has the authority to give verbal reprimands, relieve
from duty as specified above and recommend a formal written reprimand or more
serious punitive disciplinary action, as appropriate.
b. Lieutenant and Captain -: Have all the above, plus the authority to approve requests
for written reprimands and issue the same along with recommending more serious
discipline to the Chief of Police.
c. Deputy Chief of Police: - The Deputy Chief of Police has the authority to determine
the merits of the investigation. If the Deputy Chief of Police believes there is
sufficient evidence to discipline the employee(s), he/she may administer the
appropriate discipline. Discipline may include, but is not limited to, verbal
reprimand, written reprimand (warning), and suspension.
d. Chief of Police: - The Chief of Police has the authority to determine the merits of
the investigation. If the Chief of Police believes there is sufficient evidence to
discipline the employee(s), he/she may administer the appropriate discipline.
Discipline may include, but is not limited to, verbal reprimand, written reprimand
(warning), suspension, or enter into negotiation with the Union regarding alternate
types of discipline or corrective alternatives. If the Chief of Police decides that the
allegations are more serious in nature, he/she can forward the investigation to the
Board of Police Commissioners.

e.

e. The Board of Police Commissioners: - Has the authority to suspend with or without
pay for an unlimited period of time, dismiss, reduce the charges, or terminate the
employee. The Board of Police Commissioners will conduct a full Board hearing
during which evidence is presented. The complainant(s), witnesses, accused,
officers, and all other individuals pertinent to the complaint may give testimony. If
necessary, the Board of Police Commissioners can subpoena any and/or all
individuals involved. Anyone who has given a statement in this matter is entitled
to a copy of his/her own statement after the investigation has been concluded.
These records are classified as personnel files and copies cannot be released unless
authorized by the Chief of Police consistent with State and Federal law.
I. Review of the Investigation
1. The Internal Affairs Officer’s supervisor shall review the investigation to determine the
thoroughness, completeness, accuracy and objectivity of the investigation.
2. The completed report of investigation, disciplinary recommendation (if any) and the
recommended disposition shall be reviewed by the Chief of Police or his/her designee.
3. The complainant shall be promptly notified in writing of the status and/or disposition
of his/her complaint at the conclusion of the investigation by the Chief of Police or
his/her designee.

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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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4. Findings of completed investigations and disciplinary recommendations (if any), shall
be promptly conveyed, in writing, to the employee through his/her chain of command.
J. Case Dispositions: Standards
1. For each charge or allegation of misconduct or malfeasance which forms the basis for
an internal affairs investigation, such charge or allegation shall be classified upon
closing of the investigation in one of the following manners:
a. Exonerated: The investigation determined by a preponderance of the evidence that
misconduct or malfeasance was committed, but not by the subject of the
investigation.
b. Unfounded: The investigation determined by a preponderance of the evidence that
the misconduct or malfeasance complained of did not occur.
c. Not Sustained: The investigation was unable to determine by a preponderance of
the evidence whether or not the misconduct or malfeasance complained of
occurred, or whether or not it was committed by the subject of the investigation.
d. Sustained: The investigation determined by a preponderance of the evidence that
the misconduct or malfeasance complained of occurred and that it was committed
by the subject of the investigation.
e. Misconduct Not Based on Original Complaint: The investigation determined by a
preponderance of the evidence that other misconduct or malfeasance which was not
the basis for the original investigation occurred, was discovered during the course
of the original investigation, and was committed by the subject of the investigation.
f. Withdrawn: At some point prior to the completion of the investigation, the
complainant notified the agency that he/she wished the investigation to be
discontinued and concurrence for this action was obtained from the Chief of Police.
g. Summary Action: Disciplinary action in the form of an oral reprimand, or
counseling documented in writing, was taken by an employee’s supervisor or
commander for minor violations of department rules, policies or procedures as
defined by this agency. Summary actions are the lowest level of disciplinary action
or remediation.
Reconciled: At the discretion of the Chief of Police, the process of reconciliation
may be encouraged in lieu of any of the above dispositions. When authorized by
the Chief of Police, supervisors receiving complaints shall to the extent possible,
bring together the complainant and the officer or employee involved in minor
violations and attempt reconciliation. This may be used where the complaint is from
a misunderstanding on the part of the affected officer, employee or the complainant.
Reconciliation must be documented through the chain of command to the Chief of
Police or his/her designee. Reconciliation does not preclude further corrective

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h.

action on the part of the agency. Reconciliation may be employed for complaints
of a minor nature that do not reflect:
1) Discredit upon the agency
2) Discredit upon the involved employee
3) Commission of a criminal offense
4) Allegations of racism, bigotry or prejudice against any race, religion, creed,
national origin, sexual orientation, or circumstances beyond the individual’s
control.

I.K.
Report of the Investigation
1. Any recommendation for disciplinary action must be supported by relevant
documentation. At the conclusion of any administrative investigation, a full report will
be prepared for submission to the Chief of Police, which shall include the following:
a. The original complaint report.
b. A summary of all evidence gathered.
c. Any mitigating circumstances.
2. All investigative reports will adhere to the following format to ensure consistency and
thoroughness:.
a. Subject.
b. Background.
c. Violations Under Investigation.
d. Persons Interviewed.
e. List all persons with knowledge who were not interviewed and provide a brief
reason why. Such reasons may include the person’s refusal or the inability to locate
them, etc. If a subject fails to return phone calls, a certified letter must be sent.
f. Synopsis of Statements.
g. Conclusion.
h. Findings: In this section, the IAO or investigating supervisor assigns a finding to
each of the allegations by conducting an evaluation of the complaint and making a
definitive statement as to whether based on a preponderance of the evidence the
charges made were:

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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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1) Unfounded: – there is sufficient evidence to prove the complaint or incident is
false or not factual and did not occur.
2) Exonerated: – there is sufficient evidence which indicates that the act or
incident did occur, but the actions were justified, lawful or proper.
3) Not Sustained: – there is insufficient evidence to clearly prove or disprove the
complaint or incident.
4) Sustained - No Discipline: – there is sufficient evidence to establish that the
incident did occur, but the facts and circumstances are of such a nature that
formal discipline is not warranted.
5) Sustained- Discipline: – there is sufficient evidence to establish that the incident
did occur and the facts and circumstances support the determination that these
actions constitute misconduct.
3. Each violation under investigation should be listed separately, along with the finding
for that particular charge. Immediately following each finding will be the basis. The
basis gives the reasons for the particular finding and a description of the evidence that
supports the finding.
J. Further Action
1. Upon receipt of the report of investigation, the Chief of Police may take further nondisciplinary action as is necessary based upon findings in the particular case.
K. Additional Documentation
1. In addition to determining whether the officer committed the alleged misconduct,
administrative investigations shall assess and document the following:.
a. Whether the police action was in compliance with training and legal standards.
b. Whether the use of different tactics should or could have been employed to
achieve a potentially better outcome.
c. W he t her the incident indicates a need for additional training, counseling or
other non-disciplinary corrective measures.
d . Whether the incident suggests that the Department should revise its policies,
strategies, tactics, or training.
2. The Chief of Police shall direct any recommendations to the appropriate individual to
implement the recommended change.
a. The individual charged by the Chief of Police shall document the implementation
of these recommendations.
b. All documentation shall be returned to the IAO for record-keeping.
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JuneOctober 15, 20263
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L. Notifications
1. Each person who has filed a complaint against an employee will be notified by the IAO
as to the final results of the investigation.
2. If a disciplinary hearing is deemed necessary, the complainant will be notified that his
or her testimony may be required at that time.
3. The Department employee will be notified in writing of the findings of the investigation
in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.
4. If at any time during complaint intake or investigation the IAO or investigating
supervisor determines that there may have been criminal conduct on the part of any
employee, the IAO or investigating supervisor shall immediately notify the Chief of
Police and shall consult with the State’s Attorney’s Office, USAO and/or the local
office of the FBI regarding the initiation of a criminal investigation.
M. Confidentiality of Internal Affairs Records
1. The IAO shall maintain records of all complaints made against the Department or its
employees, and such records shall be stored securely in the Internal Affairs office
and/or vault storage.
2. In order to ensure that the individual rights of employees who are the subject of an
internal affairs investigation are protected, all material relevant to that investigation
shall be kept strictly confidential and secured by the IAO. No statement regarding an
internal affairs investigation will be made or issued to the media unless authorized by
the Chief of Police.
3. A complete file of records on the investigation of all citizen and iInternal aAffairs
complaints shall be kept in the office of the IAO Officer. These files shall contain
supporting investigative information, as well as notes taken during the investigation.
The files will be treated as confidential investigative files.
N. Training
1. All supervisory personnel will be required to attend training on this directive and the
responsibilities of supervisors conducting internal affairs investigations upon the
implementation of this policy.
3.2. All supervisory personnel will be required to attend periodic refresher training
regarding this directive and professionally accepted practices related to conducting
internal investigation.

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East Haven Type of Directive:
No. 402.65
Policies & Procedures
Police
Subject/Title:
Issue Date:
Department
May 18January 3127, 2026
Automated License
Plate Readers
(ALPR)

Effective Date:

Issuing Authority:

Review Date:

Honorable Board of
Police Commissioners

Annually

References/Attachments: N/A

JuneFebruary 51713, 2026

Rescinds:
402.54
Amends:
N/A

I.

II.

PURPOSE

A. The purpose of this directive is to set forth the policies and procedures of the East Haven
Police Department regarding the proper use of mobile Automated License Plate Readers
(ALPR) and fixed ALPR cameras by members of the East Haven Police Department.

POLICY

A. It shall be the policy of the East Haven Police Department that all members of the
department shall abide by the guidelines and procedures set forth within this directive
when using mobile ALPRs and fixed ALPR cameras to scan, detect, and identify
vehicles or persons of interest.
B. All information, searches, and records related to the ALPR system shall be classified as
Criminal Justice Information (CJI) and protected accordingly. Any violations of this
policy will result in disciplinary action.

III.

DEFINITIONS

A. Alert: A visual and /or auditory notice or alarm that is triggered when the mobile ALPR
or the fixed ALPR cameras receive a potential hit on a license plate.
B. Alert Data: Information captured by a mobile ALPR or fixed ALPR camera relating to a
license plate that matches the license plate on a hot list.
C. ALPR: Automated license plate reader.
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C.

D. ALPR Administrator: The Chief of Police or his/her designee is responsible for ensuring
compliance with all applicable laws and regulations related to ALPR systems, as well as
providing access and training to department personnel in operating ALPR systems.
E. ALPR Data: Scan files, alert data, and any other documents or data generated by or
obtained through utilization of the ALPR system.
F. ALPR Data Query Logs: A record of any search or query of ALPR data.
D.G.
ALPR Operator: Trained department personnel authorized to operate the ALPR
system and equipment.
E.H.
ALPR System: ALPR cameras (fixed and/or mobile) and all associated equipment
and databases.
F.I. Fixed ALPR Camera: A camera that is permanently affixed to a structure, such as a
poles, traffic barriers, or bridges that contains a complete license plate and vehicle
recognition system.
G.J.
Hit: ALPR data that corresponds to read matched to a license plate numbers, or
other vehicle descriptors that has previously entered in the CJIS-NCIC Database, or been
registered on an agency’s vehicle plates hot list, such as those associated with vehicles
that have been stolen or that are unregistered or uninsured, vehicles wanted for specific
crimes, vehicles associated with, or that may assist with the identification of, missing
persons or suspects involved in criminal activity, and vehicles associated with parking
scofflaws.
H.K.
Hot List: Databases containing lists of license plate numbers and other vehicle
descriptors manually entered into the ALPR system database that are relevant and
material to a criminal investigation or a missing or endangered personof interest.
I.L. Non -Encounter Alert: An alert that shall indicate to officers, “Do not stop the vehicle
based on this information alone. Only observe and report pertinent information to the
requesting agency.”
J.M.

OCR: Optical character recognition.

K.N.
Read: Digital images of license plates and associated metadata (e.g., date, time,
and geographic coordinates associated with the vehicle image capture) that are captured
by the ALPR system.
L.O.
Scan File: Data obtained by an ALPR system consisting of license plates that
were read by the device, including potential images and/or video of the plate and vehicle
on which it was displayed. This also includes information regarding the location of the
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police cruiser at the time of the mobile ALPR read or which fixed ALPR camera
generated the hit.

IV.

GENERAL GUIDELINES AND CONSIDERATIONS

A. An ALPR system is a computer–based system that utilizes high-resolutionspecial
cameras and analysis software to capture identify license plate information in real time.
The ALPR system captures an infrared image of a license plate and converts it to a text
file using Optical Character Recognition (“OCR”) technology. The text is compared to
various hot lists generated by law enforcement agencies, including the Criminal Justice
Information System (CJIS), National Crime Information Center (“NCIC”), Department of
Motor Vehicles (“DMV”) and the East Haven Police Department, and generates an alert
when there is a hit. The ALPR system will identify a license plate and /or a motor
vehicle.
B. The ALPR system shall be restricted to legitimate law enforcement uses for the purpose
of furthering legitimate law enforcement goals and enhancing public safety. Such uses
and goals include, but are not limited to, providing information to officers that will assist
in ongoing criminal investigations, crime prevention, crime detection, the apprehension
of wanted persons, recovery of stolen property, suspect interdiction, ensuring the safety
of vulnerable individuals through the recovery of missing, exploited or and endangered
persons, and improving the quality of life in our community through the identification
and removal of stolen, unregistered, and uninsured motor vehicles, and enforcement of
parking rules and regulations.
C. The department shall utilize hot lists that further the above specified goals of the ALPR
system where there is a legitimate and specific law enforcement reason for identifying a
vehicle or a person reasonably believed to be associated with that vehicle, such as:
persons who are subject to an outstanding arrest warrant, missing, exploited or
endangered persons, AMBER alerts, stolen vehicles or license plates, vehicles that are
reasonably believed to be involved in the commission of a crime, vehicles that are
registered to or are reasonably believed to be operated by persons who do not have a
valid operator’s license or who are on the revoked or suspended list, vehicles with
expired registrations, persons who are subject to a restraining order or who are subject to
any other duly issued order restricting their movements, persons wanted by a law
enforcement agency who are of interest in a specific investigation whether or not such
persons are themselves suspected of criminal activity, and persons who are on any watch
list issued by a state or federal agency responsible for homeland security when
information has been received concerning a specific individual(s) or individuals who
pose a potential public safety risk to the Town of East Haven.

V.

PROCEDURES

A. Management: The Chief of Police will designate an ALPR Administratorprogram
coordinator who will be responsible for the administration and general oversight of the
day to day operation and management of the ALPR system, and for all tasks ancillary to
its operation and management. The shift commander or other supervisor will determine
assignments and usage of the mobile ALPR equipped vehicles. The designated
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ALPRprogram coordinator Administrator may assign nonsworn personnel to perform
certain functions related to the operation and management of the ALPR system,
including, but not limited to, inventory, service and maintenance work (e.g., members of
the IT Unit, vendors, etc.).
1. The designated ALPR Administratorprogram coordinator will make arrangements
with the Professional Standards Officer to perform quarterly audits of the ALPR
system of at least five (5) officers to ensure that it is being used in compliance with
this directive, and the security procedures are being observed.
2. These quarterly audits also will include field inspections, review of audit trails
generated by the system and storage of the data. Retention of data will be determined
by this policy.
B. Operations: Personnel shall adhere to the following operational procedures:
1. Installation and Functioning: Mobile ALPR cameras will be mounted on police
cruisers. The cruisers will engage in either directed patrol or random patrol depending
on the assignment given. There may also be fixed ALPR cameras mounted on
stationary structures. The ALPR equipment will passively read the license plates of
moving or parked motor vehicles using ALPR optical character recognition
technology and compare them against various hot lists uploaded or created by the
police department. Scanned data files collected by the ALPR will be automatically
uploaded from the ALPR system to the respective ALPR servers. The ALPR system
will not have sound recording capability.
2. Hot Lists: Designation of hot lists to be utilized by the ALPR system shall be
approved and authorized by the designated program coordinatorALPR
Administrator. Adding a vehicle or license plate to a hot lList in connection
with a crime requires reasonable suspicion. Hot lists shall be obtained or compiled
from sources as may be consistent with the purposes of the ALPR system as set forth
within this directive, which may include (but are not limited to) the following:
a. COLLECT/NCIC Stolen Vehicle files, as available.
b. COLLECT/NCIC Stolen plates and Stolen Canadian plates, as available.
c. COLLECT/NCIC Wanted persons, as available.
d. COLLECT/NCIC Missing or Endangered person files, as available.
d.e. COLLECT/NCIC AMBER Alerts
e.f. COLLECT/NCIC Supervised Release (Parole/Probation), as available.
f.g. COLLECT/NCIC Nationwide Domestic Violence Protection Orders/Restraining
Orders, as available.

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g.h.NCIC Violent Gang and Terrorist Organization File, as available.
h.i. COLLECT/NCIC Sexual Offender.
i.j. DMV Records of Suspended/Revoked/Uninsured Motor Vehicle Registrations.
j.k. COLLECT Hit and Run File, as available.
k.l. Information relative to vehicles that are the subject of a criminal investigation.
l. Department generated hot list(s) or manual entries of license plate numbers to
existing hot list(s) created for purposes consistent with this directive.
m.
n. The department shall regularly check hot lists utilized by the ALPR system so that
these hot lists remain reasonably current.
3. Regular Operation: Officers who are assigned to police cruisers that are equipped
with the mobile ALPR system are expected to use the equipment as part of their duty
assignment when possible and in accordance with the guidelines that have been
established within this directive. Officers are expected to notify their respective
supervisors if they discover that the equipment is not working properly so that
arrangements can be made to have the equipment repaired.
C. Authorized Usage/Police Action: Only personnel trained in its use and who have been
instructed on this directive may operate the ALPR system or access or use stored ALPR
data. Access is limited to users with an approved login and password.
1. PermiPermissibletted Uses:
a. The ALPR system is the property of the East Haven Police Department.
Department personnel may only access and use the ALPR system, and may
access, use, release, and/or disseminate hot list and scan file data, only in
accordance with official and legitimate law enforcement purposes and
consistent with this directive.
b. Queries: ALPR data may be queried by authorized department
employeespersonnel in the following circumstances:
1) Investigations of criminal offenses, where there is reasonable suspicion
that a criminal offense was committed. ALPR data may not be queried in
connection with civil immigration matters unless the query pursuant to
Conn.ecticut General. Statute. §54-192h(b)(1)(A)(i), (ii) or (iii). ALPR
data may not be queried in connection with any investigation, civil or
criminal, of any individual in connection with any reproductive health care
or gender-affirming health care services that are legal in this state.

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2) As part of an active investigation related to a missing, exploited, or
endangered person, or a person associated with Hhuman Ttrafficking.
3) To locate a person with an outstanding warrant, a suspect in a crime, a
stolen vehicle, or a stolen license plate.
4)

Any case involving allegations of flight or evasion from law enforcement.

5) Efforts to locate a fugitive from justice.
6) Cases where physical surveillance of a target of a criminal investigation is
determined to be dangerous or compromised.
7) Emergencies involving wrong-way drivers, operators who seem
intoxicated, or those experiencing medical emergencies.
8) Motor vehicle accidents resulting in fatalities or serious injuries.
9) Motor vehicle crashes related to evading responsibility.
10) Situations that would meet the “exigent circumstances” exception to the
Fourth Amendment.
1.11)
National Security & Counterterrorism: Identifying vehicles
associated with individuals on federal or state Terrorist Watch Lists.

2. Impermissible Uses: The following uses of the ALPR system are specifically
prohibited:
a. Invasion of Privacy: Except when done pursuant to a court order such as a
search warrant, it is a violation of this directive to utilize the ALPR system to
record license plates, or vehicle descriptors except those of vehicles that are
exposed to public view (e.g., vehicles on a public road or street, or that are on
private property but whose license plate(s) are visible from a public road,
street, or a place to which members of the public have access, such as the
parking lot of a shop or other business establishment).
b. Harassment/Intimidation: It is a violation of this directive to use the ALPR
system or associated scan files or hot lists to harass and/or intimidate any
individual or group.
c. Use Based on a Protected Characteristic: It is a violation of this directive to
use the ALPR system or associated scan files or hot lists solely because of a
person’s or group’s race, color, gender, religion or religious creed, sex
(including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and related medical
conditions), ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression,
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national origin, ancestry, age, disability (including physical, mental,
intellectual, and learning disabilities), genetic information, marital status
(including civil union status), veteran or military status, citizenship or
immigration status or any other classification protected by law.
d. Personal Use: It is a violation of this directive to use the ALPR system or
associated scan files or hot lists for any personal purpose.
e. First Amendment Rights: It is a violation of this directive to use the ALPR
system or associated scan files or hot lists for the purpose of infringing upon
constitutionally protected First Amendment rights.
3. Required Steps Preliminary to Police Action
3.a. : Hotlists utilized by the department’s ALPR system may be updated by agency
sources more frequently than the department may be uploading them, and the
department’s ALPR system may not have access to real time data. Further, there
may be errors in the ALPR’s “read” of a license plate. Therefore, an alert alone
shall not be a basis for police action (other than following the vehicle of interest).
Absent exigent circumstances, Pprior to the initiatingtiation of a motor vehicle
stop or other intervention based on an alert, an officers shall undertake the
following:
a.1) Verification of current status on the hot list: An officer must receive
confirmation from COLLECT/NCIC or other department computer device
that the license plate is still stolen, wanted, or otherwise an interest before
proceeding with any enforcement action.
b.2) Visual verification of the license plate number: Officers shall visually verify
that the license plate on the vehicle matches identically with the image of the
license plate number captured by the ALPR reader, including both the
alphanumeric characters of the license plate, and the state of issue, and any
other identifying characteristics match the information in the ALPR system or
develop independent reasonable suspicion before proceeding with any
enforcement action.
c.3) Dispatcher responsibilities: Upon receiving an alert from the ALPR system
and absent more urgent matters, e.g., 911 calls, dispatchers will visually verify
that the captured plate (photo) matches the alert plate/tag. Dispatchers will
notify on duty officers of the hit via radio to include any hotlist alerts/specific
instructions. Dispatch will generate a case number for any alert an officer is
dispatched to, cross referencing to the original case number, if applicable.
4. Motor Vehicle Stops
4.a. : All motor vehicle stops must be constitutionally valid and otherwise comply
with department policy and procedures on stops. To assist with implementation of
these obligations and in furtherance of the purposes of the ALPR system, the
following requirements apply to traffic stops:
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1) Completion of Preliminary Steps to Police Action: Officers are expected to
have completed the verification process as described in the preceding section
prior to engaging in a motor vehicle stop, unless the stop is predicated by
some other legitimate reason independent of the ALPR system.
a.2) An ALPR hit may not be from an updated or live database, and therefore
the hitUsers shall be verifiedy the status of the license plate through the state’s
Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS), the National Crime Information
Center (NCIC), the department’s Records Management System (RMS) or , the
originating agency..
b. Non encounter Alerts: In the event that an alert is designated as a non encounter
alert, the officer shall follow any instructions included in the alert (e.g., notifying
any applicable law enforcement or homeland security agency). In these situations,
officers should consider the appropriateness of generating a case number to
document the alert.
c. Persons of Interest: With regard toIn cases in which an alert may indicate a person
of interest (such as a wanted person), officers are reminded that in some cases, the
driver or occupant of the vehicle may not be the person with whom the license
plate is associated (e.g., since vehicles may be loaned). Officers should bear this
in mind upon contact with individuals in a vehicle and positively identify the
occupants before taking enforcement action.
d. Independent Reason for Traffic Stop: An officer may stop a vehicle when he/she
has an independent reason for doing so, such as would be the case involving an
unrelated traffic violation.
e. Appropriate Police Action: Nothing in this directive shall restrict or prohibit an
officer from taking appropriate police action based on facts or reasons obtained
independently from ALPR operation.
5. Use in Connection with Serious Crimes/Incidents: The ALPR system should be
utilized to conduct license plate canvasses in the immediate wake of any homicide,
shooting, robbery, kidnapping, sexual assault or AMBER alert and any other major
crime or incident. Registration plates or partial plates potentially associated with any
such major crimes or incidents should be entered into the ALPR system and
compared against the scan file. Conversely, registration plate numbers may be used
for exculpatory purposes (e.g., to corroborate a registrant's alibi).
6. Mutual Aid Requests: A Shift Commander may approve a mutual aid request for use
of the ALPR system for purposes that are consistent with this directive, as may be
appropriate under the circumstances and as resources permit. An “Assist Other
Agency” case number shall be generated for each request and cross referenced with
the requesting agency’s case number. The final call type shall be designated as
“ALPR”. Shift Commanders are encouraged to provide mutual aid to other
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communities when they become aware of a serious incident which they reasonably
believe the ALPR system may be considered useful. If a mutual aid request includes
the entry of an alert, the approving supervisor must ensure that the officer who
received the request, if not the supervisor, enters CAD remarks detailing the
assistance provided. The supervisor who entered the alert is responsible for
maintaining contact with the requesting agency at least once every seven (7) days to
confirm whether the alert is still necessary. The requesting agency should also be
advised to notify our dDepartment as soon as the alert is no longer needed, so it can
be removed.
7. Documentation: Any evidence obtained from ALPR systems shall be retained in
accordance with this directive and documented in an incident report.
D. Security/Authorized Stored Data Access/ConfidentialityAccountability and Safeguards
1. : ALPR data shall be kept in a secure data storage system with access restricted to
authorized persons only. The ALPR data shall be safeguarded by the Department’s
internal data security protocols. The following shall be adhered to:
a) All Freedom of Information (FOIA) requests for ALPR data shall be processed in
accordance with Connecticut General Statutes § 1-210(b)(3) and § 1-215.
b) ALPR data cannot be queried in connection with civil immigration issues unless
the query is pursuant to § 54-192h (b)(1)(A)(i), (ii) or (iii).
c) ALPR data may not be queried in connection with any investigation, civil or
criminal, of any person concerning reproductive health care, gender-affirming
health services, or any health care services that are legal in the State of
Connecticut, or any manner that would violate General Statutes § 54-155b.
d) The sharing of ALPR data outside of the State of Connecticut requires the
requesting agency to receive a copy of this directive, and the requesting (state or
federal) agency to accept its terms by affirming it will abide by the provisions set
forth herein. By making such affirmation to abide by the terms of this directive,
the requesting agency agrees not to use the department’s ALPR data in violation
of the Connecticut State LawGeneral Statutes, including but not limited to, the
Connecticut Trust Act, General Statutes § 54-192h, and General Statutes § 54155b, sections 1 & 2. If the written declaration or required affirmation described
in this subsection is not executed, dDepartment personnel shall not share or
provide access to such ALPR data.
e) Officers shall clearly state in any written report, affidavit, or court application that
ALPR data was used in connection with the incident or investigation being
reported, unless otherwise authorized by the State’s Attorney, the Office of the
Inspector General, or the Chief State’s Attorney’s Office.
D.
Querying Scan Files: Access to scan files will be secured and controlled by a login
password accessible system. The user must log in with their personal credentials,
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2.

which are specific to that user only. Officers may only access data stored in the ALPR
server based upon a reasonable belief that the scan file data may be related or useful
as part of a specific official action or investigation.
a. To query the system, the following steps apply:
1) The user mustshall enter the following information into the search screen:
i.
Parameters of the query (e.g. license plate, vehicle characteristics, time,
date).
ii.

Reason for the query, offense type; and

iii.

Case number, or other identifying number.

1.b.
All mobile and fixed ALPR camera inquiries should focus on investigating
criminal activityall contain the related case number and the reason(s) for the
search. Scan file data will be considered confidential information to the extent
permitted by law.
3. Hot Lists: Security of the hot list data will be the responsibility of the officer using
the ALPR system or accessing the data. Hot list data will be considered confidential
information to the extent permitted by law.
a. If an officer determines a hot list entry should be entered/modified, he/she shall
seek an on duty supervisor to enter the alert into the ALPR system. Any time an
alert is entered, the requestorrequester must generate a case number and enter
CAD remarks detailing the reason for the entry. The manual entry shall list the
offense type, vehicle description, and requesting officer’s name. Manual entries
should also include specific descriptordescriptors for vehicles being sought for
legitimate law enforcement purposes, when available. The license plate of the
vehicle alert shall be added into the Vehicle tab in CAD under the alert case
number. The supervisor, along with the requesting officer, will create/modify the
hotlist entry and determine the appropriate notification groups that will receive
the associated alerts (e.g., dispatch, detectives). Verification of the license plate
shall be queried via CJIS/NCIC to ensure that the plate entered is accurate.

2.

b. When a supervisor enters an alert into the ALPR system, that supervisor shall set
an expiration date and be responsible for reviewing the alert at least once every
seven (7) days to determine if the alert should remain in the system. This will
enhance privacy by preventing surplus data being stored in the system. If it is
determined that an alert should be extended, supplemental CAD remarks must be
written detailing the reason for the extension. The Detective Division is
authorized to enter/modify information on the hot list as required for their
investigations.
c. a.
Absent exigent circumstances, officers shall utilize the alert system instead
of conducting frequent and repeated searches of the same vehicle. Any exigent
circumstances that require immediate, repeated searches before an alert can be
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created shall be documented by generating a case number and entering in CAD
remarks.
3.4.The ALPR Administratorprogram coordinator shall conduct monthly audits of hot list
entries and remove any that are no longer relevant.
5. Designated personnel trained in the use of the ALPR software shall have access to
ALPR data to conduct analysis of said data in order to comply with legitimate law
enforcement requests.
E. ALPR Administrator: The Chief of Police shall appoint an ALPR Administrator to
oversee the ALPR system. Their duties shall include:
1. Ensuring that the ALPR system is used solely for proper department business and in
compliance with this policy, as well as local, state, and federal laws.
2. Ensuring that only properly trained sworn officers, crime analysts, and
communication operators are allowed access to the ALPR system, and/or to collect
ALPR information.
3. Issuing login credentials to authorized users.
4. Ensuring that training requirements are completed for authorized users.
5. Monitoring ALPR systems to ensure the security of the information and compliance
with applicable privacy laws.
6. Monitoring the ALPR system to ensure it operates according to specifications and
reporting any software or hardware failures to the vendor for repair.
7. Reporting any violations of this policy, or law to the Chief of Police.
8. Reviewing any request for data sharing from an external law enforcement agency.
9. Performing a quarterly audit of the department’s ALPR system to verify compliance
with this policy and other applicable policies. Audits shall include reviewing audit
logs to confirm that queries are made for authorized and legitimate purposes and that
each user has entered all required information.
10. Providing recommendations to the Chief of Police regarding any necessary updates.
F. Vendor Requirements
1. Any private vendor, contractor, or third-party entity that stores, processes, or provides
access to ALPR systems or ALPR data on behalf of a law enforcement agency the
Department is prohibited from sharing, transferring, selling, granting access to, or
otherwise disseminating any ALPR data except in full compliance with this policy.

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2. Any contract or agreement between the dDepartment and such ALPR vendor must
expressly incorporate the provisions of this policy.
G. Training: All department personnel must complete standardized training before gaining
access to and using the ALPR system.
1. Standardized training shall include the following topics:
a. System Access & Controls: Training on secure logins and permissions.
b. Hardware & Software Maintenance: guidelines on the condition and status of
ALPR equipment (if applicable).
c. Hot List Management: how to download, interpret, and update hot lists.
d. Reporting Requirements: reporting, including the retention requirements for LPR
data.
e. Data Sharing: the sharing of ALPR data outside of the State of Connecticut
requires that the requesting agency receive a copy of this policy, and that the
requesting agency has accepted the terms outlined.
f. Manufacturer-Specific Training: Technical software and hardware navigation
specific to a vendor’s product.
g. Visual Verification Requirement for Hits: To emphasize that an ALPR hit may
not be from an updated or live NCIC database, and the hit should be verified with
NCIC, or the originating agency.
h. Privacy & Civil Liberties: Educating Officers on protecting First Amendment
Rights, ensuring that ALPRs are not used to target persons solely based upon
protected characteristics, or to knowingly and intentionally infringe on a person's
First Amendment Rights.
i. Prohibited Uses: Clearly state that ALPR systems and data are intended solely for
official law enforcement purposes. They must not be used for personal reasons,
shared with unauthorized individuals or organizations, or employed to violate any
local, state, or federal laws, including but not limited to the General Statutes § 54192h (Trust Act), and the General Statutes § 54-155b (Prohibition on use of
public resources in furtherance of interstate investigation or proceeding
concerning the provision, seeking or receipt of or assistance with reproductive
health care services or gender-affirming health care services).
j. Penalties for Misuse: Any person who knowingly engages in impermissible use of
the ALPR system or its data may be subject to administrative sanctions, including
termination, civil liability, and possibly criminal prosecution.

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4.k.
The ALPR Administrator’s Role: The ALPR Administrator shall ensure
that any changes in the ALPR system or changes in applicable laws are included
in the standardized updated training.
E.H.
Retention: Scanned data will be retained for a no more thanminimum period of
twenty-onethirty (2130) days unless it has been deemed to be of evidentiary value,
information in connection with an ongoing investigation, subject to a court order, or it is
being retained in accordance with some other lawful purpose. This retention period is
designed to balance investigative needs with privacy concerns.
I. ALPR Records
1. The ALPR vendor and/or the police dDepartment will keep a record for each
transaction on department ALPR systems, including query information or hit
information, the name of the individual or agency accessing the data, along with the
date and time of access, and the reason for the access.
1.

2. Department ALPR data may be downloaded and retained by dDepartment personnel
for legitimate and authorized law enforcement purposes, including specific
investigations. This data shall be kept in accordance with Connecticut Public Records
laws and maintained at least until a final disposition has been reached in the case.
3. The ALPR Administrator may download audit trail data for purposes of generating
audit reports.
4. Records shall be maintained on the number and location of all ALPR cameras,
including vehicle mount camera systems.
5. The Chief of Police shall require the submission of quarterly reports documenting
ALPR usage in accordance with this policy.

F.J. Program Oversight/Evaluation/Audit Review: For purposes of ensuring that the ALPR
system is being used in accordance with the directive, the following inspectional, audit
and review processes will be routinely carried out:
1. Designated, trained personnel shall check equipment on a regular basis to ensure
functionality and camera alignment. Any equipment that falls outside expected
functionality shall be removed from service until deficiencies have been corrected.
Officers shall not attempt to modify or change the ALPR system, equipment, or
software unless authorized to do so.
2. Damage or other malfunctions to the equipment will be reported through the
appropriate chain of command to the program coordinatorALPR Administrator.
3. All successful uses of the ALPR will be recorded as “blind” within the enforcement
category section of the statistical data captured for motor vehicle stops in LEAS. The

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designated program coordinatorALPR Administrator will compile statistics of these
uses and provide quarterly updates on such uses to the department's command staff.
4. The Professional Standards Officer will review the ALPR system usage of at least
five (5) officers quarterly and maintain records of the audit. The audits shall
determine the dDepartment’s adherence to this directive and the procedures it
establishes, as well as the maintenance and completeness of records contemplated by
this directive. At the completion of this audit, a full report on the outcome shall be
forwarded to the Chief of Police. Audit reports shall be considered to be public
record to the extent consistent with the Public Records Law. Audits shall include, but
not be limited to, review of the following:
a. Records of ALPR system usage, including vehicles of interest added to a hot list.
b. Records of sharing ALPR system data with other agencies or in response to any
official request will be maintained by the Records Supervisor.
c. Records of reproduction of scan files pursuant to this directive.
d.

Reviewing the use of case numbers to create or search scan files to confirm that
queries are made for authorized purposes and that each user has entered all
required information.

e. Review of hot list entries to confirm their continued relevance.
f. Hot lists entries shall be checked to ensure entries made are in compliance with
this directive.
5. Any officer becoming aware of a possible violation of this directive, including but
not limited to the unauthorized access, use, release and/or dissemination of ALPR
system data, shall refer them to the Professional Standards Officer.
G.K.
Requests for Reproduction of Scan FilesData Sharing: Reproduction of the data
being maintained in the ALPR system will be in accordance with one of the following
conditions or circumstances:
1. Reproduction Responsibility/Evidence: The department’s Record Room Supervisor
shall be responsible for making reproductions of scan files in accordance with the
Connecticut Freedom of Information Act (F.O.I.A.) laws. This policy establishes
minimum standards governing data sharing. The Head of the Records DivisionRoom
Supervisor shall ensure that any sharing of ALPR data complies with applicable
federal and Connecticut state law.
2. Reproduction Request Procedures:
a. Outside of State Agency Requests
1) : The dDepartment shall not share with, sell or transfer to, or allow access to
ALPR data with an out of state law enforcement agency which expressly
affirms that the ALPR information obtained will not be used in a manner that
402.56 – Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR)
June 5February 13, 2026
Page 14 of 15

violates this department policy or the Connecticut General Statutes as
delineated in this policy. If a written declaration of affirmation is not
executed, the department shall not share the ALPR information with the out of
state law enforcement agency. By expressly affirming that it will abide by the
terms of this policy, the requesting agency agrees not to use its ALPR data in
violation of Connecticut State Law, including, but not limited to, the
Connecticut General Statutes § 54-192h (the Connecticut Trust Act) and
Connecticut General Statutes § 54-155b.
2) may be shared with any federal, state, or local law enforcement agency,
provided the request is made for a legitimate law enforcement purpose,
complies with the procedures outlined in this directive, and is associated with
a case number. All requests shall be documented under an “Assist Other
Agency” case number, which will include a cross reference to the requesting
agency’s case number. The final call type shall be designated as “ALPR”.
3) The Chief of Police or his/her designee will decide which external state,
regional, or national networks can access the dDepartment’s ALPR data.
ALPR data may only be accessed, retrieved, or shared for official law
enforcement or public safety purposes.
1)4)

a.b. Court Related Requests (e.g., Prosecutors, Defense Attorneys, Judges): A request
will be filed to the Records Division Supervisor, who will provide the requesting
party with a copy of the scan files.
b.c. Subpoena: Requests for scan data will be fulfilled in order to comply with
subpoenas issued.
c.d. Public Records Requests for Scan Files: Scan files will be released in accordance
with Connecticut F.O.I.A. laws.
d.e. Notification of Request for Scan Files: Any request for the reproduction of scan
files intended for use outside the department, and not related to a legitimate law
enforcement purpose, will be forwarded to the department’s Legal Advisor. The
Legal Advisor will assist in determining the appropriateness of the request and
what information, if any, is legally permitted for release to a third party.

402.56 – Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR)
June 5February 13, 2026
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No.
East Haven Type of Directive:
Policies & Procedures
414.132
Police
Subject/Title:
Issue Date:
Department
May 18September 30, 20265
Motorized Pursuits

Effective Date:
June 5October 17, 20265

Issuing Authority:

Review Date:

Honorable Board of
Police Commissioners

Annually

References/Attachments:
Policies and Procedures #: 404, 405, 407
Connecticut General Statutes § 14-283 and 14-283a

I.

II.

Rescinds:
414.121
Amends:
N/A

PURPOSE

A. The purpose of this directive is to set forth the policies and procedures of the East Haven
Police Department (EHPD) regarding the pursuit of motor vehicles, in accordance with
the provisionsSection of Connecticut General Statute § 14-283a of Connecticut General
Statutes.

POLICY

A. It is the policy of the East Haven Police Department that no police officer shall initiate a
vehicular pursuit unless the officer has reasonable suspicion to believe that the driver or
occupant has committed or is attempting to commit a crime of violence, or there are exigent
circumstances that warrant the need to apprehend the suspect in a timely manner because
of the potential for harm to the public if the apprehension does not occur. Pursuits of fleeing
motor vehicles may present a danger to the lives of the public, officers, and those vehicle
occupants involved in the pursuit.
B. It is the policy of the East Haven Police Department that supervisors shall be accountable
for communicating with officers involved in a motorized pursuit and for the decision to
terminate the pursuit when it exposes any officer, suspect, or member of the general
publicpublic to any unnecessary risk of harm or injury.

III.

DEFINITIONS

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June 5October 17, 20265
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A. Authorized Emergency Vehicle: A police vehicle equipped with operable emergency
equipment, including audible siren and red/blue flashing lights, while such vehicle is
being operated by a police officer.
A.B.
Blocking Vehicle: An unoccupied police vehicle, which is placed perpendicular to
a roadway or angled in such a way as to create an obstruction to traffic.
B.C.
Boxing -In: The surrounding of a violator’s moving vehicle that is being pursued
with multiple moving police vehicles, which areis then slowed to a stop along with the
violator’s vehicle.
C.D.
Communications: The East Haven Public Safety Communications Center
(EHPSCC) and its personnel who are the central dispatch center for the Department.
D.
Crime of Violence: An offense in which physical force, the attempted use or threatened
use of physical force, is used against another person(s) for the purpose of, injuring, damaging or
abusing another person(s), or any offense that is a felony and that involves a substantial risk that
physical force against another person may be used in the course of committing the offense.
E. De Facto Pursuit: When an officer engages in pursuit without activating his/her emergency
lights and sirens, which includes, but is not limited to, any of the following circumstances:
1. When an officer terminates a pursuit, but continues to follow the fleeing vehicle
(trailing).
2. In the event a suspect vehicle appears to be fleeing, an officer continuously and for an
extended period of time or distance follows the vehicle without activating his/her
emergency lights and/or sirens.
a. This section shall not apply to officers that are coordinating a safe tactical plan to
conduct a motor vehicle stop as soon as feasible and safe to do so, observing
operation to determine suspected impairment from drugs and/or alcohol, or
attempting to disburse unlawful gatherings of a large group of motor vehicles,
motorcycles, or ATVs.
3. Following a failure to stop incident, the officer intentionally continues to follow the
suspect vehicle.
4. In the event an officer is conducting surveillance in a non-patrol vehicle, his/her
disobeying traffic laws without the use of emergency lights or sirens will not constitute
a de facto pursuit. However, depending on the circumstances, he/she may still be in
violation of other Department Policies & Procedures.
F. Ghost Pursuit: When an officer engages in a vehicle pursuit without reporting the incident
as a pursuit.
G. Failure to Stop: After attempting a motor vehicle stop, the driver of a vehicle attempts to
avoid apprehension by maintaining or increasing the speed of such vehicle or by ignoring
414.123 – Motorized Pursuits
June 5October 17, 20265
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the police officer’s attempt to stop such vehicle. Once recognizing the operator’s intent on
disobeying the officer’s signal to stop, the officer promptly deactivates his lights and/or
sirens instead of initiating a pursuit.
H. GPS Launcher: A compressed air-launcher that is mounted on an authorized law
enforcement vehicle and deploys a GPS projectile/tag that adheres to the suspect vehicle.
I. Heading Off: An attempt to terminate a pursuit by pulling ahead of, behind or toward a
violator’s moving vehicle to force it to the side of the road to otherwise come to a stop.
J. Intervention Technique: Any device by its design used to reduce the risks or dangers
associated with police pursuits that, when deployed and contact is made, will cause the
fleeing vehicle to sustain flattened tires and force it to slow down.
J.K.

Physical Injury: Any Impairment of physical condition or pain.

K.L.
Primary Unit: The police vehicle operated by a police officer that initiates a
pursuit or any police vehicle operated by a police officer that assumes control of the
pursuit.
M. Pursuit: An attempt by a police officer in an authorized emergency vehicle to apprehend
any occupant of another moving motor vehicle, when the driver of the fleeing vehicle is
attempting to avoid apprehension by maintaining or increasing the speed of such vehicle
or by ignoring the police officer’s attempt to stop such vehicle.
L.N.
Pursuit Management Technology: Real-time tagging and Global Positioning
System (GPS) tracking tools and equipment used to aid with reducing dangerous highspeed pursuits.
M.O.
Roadblock: A restriction orn obstruction which is used to prevent free passage of
motor vehicles on used in thea roadway in order to apprehend the operator of a fleeing
vehicle. A roadblock may be established as a partial, otherwise known as restrictive, or a
complete, otherwise known as obstructive, roadblock. The roadblock may be natural or
manmade, having the purpose of stopping vehicular traffic.
P. Secondary Unit: The second Any police vehicle in a pursuit, used to relay information
about pursuit conditions and location and to handle any radio traffic that may occur. The
secondary unit shall operated by a police officer that becomes involved as a backup to the
primary unit and follows the primary unit at a safe distance.
N.Q.
Serious Physical Injury: Physical injury which creates a substantial risk of death,
or which causes serious disfigurement, serious impairment of health or serious loss or
impairment of the function of any bodily organ.
O.R.
StarChase: A real-time tagging and GPS tracking tool to reduce dangerous highspeed pursuits.
414.123 – Motorized Pursuits
June 5October 17, 20265
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P.S.
StarChase GPS Tag: A device containing a small GPS module that is attached to a
suspect vehicle with an industrial-strength adhesive compound.
Q.T.
StarChase Pursuit Management System (StarChase): A system which allows a
police officer to remotely affix a GPS tracking device from an equipped police vehicle onto
a suspect vehicle that is fleeing or is suspected to flee.
R.U.
Street Paralleling: Driving a police vehicle on a street parallel to a street on which
a pursuit is occurring.
V. Supervisor: A sworn member designated by the Department to have supervisory control
over the operation of the Department’s vehicles during a pursuit.
S.W.
Terminate: To discontinue or stop pursuing a vehicle which may also be referred
to as “disengage” or “discontinue”.
T.X.
Tertiary Police Vehicle: Any police vehicle which supplements the primary or
secondary police vehicle, however, is not active in the pursuit.
U. Trailing: Continuing to follow a suspect vehicle after the termination of a pursuit.
Y.
W.Z.
Vehicle Contact Action: Any action undertaken by the pursuing officer intended
to result in contact between the moving police vehicle and the pursued vehicle.
X.AA.
Vehicle Paralleling: A deliberate offensive tactic by one or more law enforcement
vehicles to drive alongside the pursued vehicle while it is in motion.
Y.BB.
Vehicle Tracking: Monitoring the movement of a motor vehicle via GPS without
maintaining constant visual contact.
Z.CC.
Violation: An offense which is not a crime, for which the only sentence
authorized, is a fine and which is not expressly designated as an infraction. C.G.S. § 53a27.
DD. Violator: - Any person operating a motor vehicle whom a police officer reasonably
believes has committed a violation or a crime as defined by Connecticut General Statutes,
or poses an immediate threat to the safety of the public or other police officers.
EE. Violent Crime: An offense that has an element of physical forceThe use, the attempted use
or threatened use of physical force against a person that may cause serious physical injury
or death to another, or any offense that is a felony and that, by its nature, involves a
substantial risk that physical force against another person may be used in the course of
committing the offense. A violent crime does not mean offenses that constitute
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June 5October 17, 20265
Page 4 of 23

infractions, property crimes (including stolen motor vehicles), non-violent misdemeanors
and non-violent felonies. A property crime that may cause death or serious physical injury
to another will be considered a violent crime.
AA.FF.
Violent Felony: A felony that involves an actual or threatened attack, which the
officer has reasonable cause to believe could or has resulted in death or serious bodily
injury.

IV.

PROCEDURES

A. Initiation of a Pursuit
1. A police officer may only engage another vehicle in a pursuit if the officer has
reasonable suspicion to believe that the driver or occupant has committed, or is
attempteding to commit a, or participated in a violent crime of violence, or there are
exigent circumstances that warrant the need to apprehend the suspect operator or
occupant(s) in a timely manner because of the potential for harm to the public that may
occur if the apprehensionoperator or occupant(s) is not apprehended or the vehicle is
not stopped does not occur. The officer(s) must be able to articulate the exigent need
to apprehend the driver or occupant(s) because of the potential harm or risk to the
public.
Offenses that constitute infractions, property crimes that would not cause death or
serious physical injury to another (to includinge stolen motor vehicles), non-violent
misdemeanors and non-violent felonies shall not be justification to engage in a pursuit
of another vehicle, absent articulable exigent circumstances.

2.
3.1.The officer(s) involved in the pursuit and their supervisor(s) shall continuously reassess
the factors listed above to determine whether the pursuit shall continue or be
terminated.

4.3.A pursuit shall not be undertaken, even if allowable by other provisions of this
directive, unless and until the officer, based upon the information available to him/her
at the time, shall makes an objectively reasonable determination that the immediate
danger to the officer, the public or both, created by the pursuit is less than the immediate
or potential danger to the public, should the operatorsuspect(s) or occupant(s) remain
at large. A decision to engage in a pursuit shall be based upon the following:.
a. The underlying crime for which the operator or occupant(s) are suspected of
committing, attempting, or participating in.
b. Whether the identity of the operator or occupant(s) is known and apprehension by
other means is possible, and if any danger would result from this delay.
c. The immediate danger to the public and the police officer(s) created by the pursuit
is less than the immediate danger to the public should the occupants of the pursued
vehicle remain at large.

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June 5October 17, 20265
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d. Location, speed, direction of other traffic, population density, type of vehicle being
pursued and operator’s driving behaviors.
e. Environmental factors such as, weather, time of the day, and visibility.
f. The relative capabilities of the police vehicle(s) and the vehicle being pursued.
g. Road conditions, including: surface type (e.g. wet, icy, or dry), road topography
(e.g. curves and slopes), and the presencepresence of traffic controls.
h. The presence of other people in the police vehicle.
i. The presence of other people in the pursued vehicle (minors).
j. Population density and vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

4.

The officer(s) involved in the pursuit and their supervisor(s) shall continuously reassess
the factors listed above to determine whether the pursuit shall continue or be
terminated.

j.5. A pursuit shall not be initiated or shall be terminated, as the case may be, when in the
opinion of the police officer in pursuit or the on-duty supervisor, there is a clear and
reasonable threat of imminent death or serious physical injury to the police officer,
members of the public, or both, created by the pursuit, which outweighs the necessity for
an immediate apprehension to eliminate the threat to public safety that would reasonably
be posed by the escape of the operator or occupant(s), or by continuation of their actions.
B. Pursuit Operations
1. All authorized emergency vehicle pursuit operations shall be conducted in strict
conformity with Sections 14-283a-1 to 14-283a-4, inclusive, of the Regulations of
Connecticut State Agencies, and section 14-283a of the Connecticut General Statutes
§ 14-283a and 14-283.
2. Upon engaging in or entering into a pursuit, the pursuing officer shall activate his/her
police vehicle’s emergency lights, sirens, and cameras (BWC and MVR), where
available, and they shall remain activated for the duration of the pursuit. An audible
warning device shall be used during all such pursuits.
3. The pursuing officer shall immediately notify EHPSCC of his/herthe unit designation,
location, direction of travel, reason for the pursuit, and speed and driving behavior of
the pursued vehicleit, the description of the pursued vehicle (e.g., make, model, color,
license plate state and number, and other distinguishing marks), occupant information,
if known (e.g., number, description, and identities) of occupants, any information
concerning weapons, threat of force, injuries, hostages or other unusual
circumstancesthe presence or threat of firearms and the and hazards and any pertinent
414.123 – Motorized Pursuits
June 5October 17, 20265
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information relating to probable cause initial purpose of the stop. The police officer
shall keep the EHPSCC updated on the pursuit.
4. Once a secondary unit enters the pursuit, the secondary unit shall assume
communication responsibilities, including relaying information on pursuit conditions
and location and handling any radio traffic that may occur. EHPSCC personnel shall
immediately notify any available supervisor of the agency or agencies involved in such
pursuit, clear the radio channel of non-emergency traffic, enter the pursuit into the CAD
system, and relay necessary information to other police officers of the involved police
agency or agencies, and adjacent police agencies in whose directions the pursuit is
proceeding.
5. When engaged in a pursuit, officers shall drive with due regard for the safety of persons
and property.
a. A police vehicle entering any intersection against traffic control signals or signs
shall slow to safe speeds and be prepared to slow or stop to avoid any collision.
6. Unless circumstances dictate otherwise, a pursuit shall consist of no more than three
(3) police vehicles, one of which shall be designated as the primary unit. No other
personnel shall join the pursuit unless instructed to participate by a supervisor.
7. The primary unit involved in the pursuit shall become secondary when the fleeing
vehicle comes under police air surveillance or when another unit has been assigned
primary responsibility.
8. Officers designated as the secondary unit during a pursuit shall:
a. Provide notification when they join the pursuit.
b. Assist the primary unit during the motor vehicle pursuit.
c. Maintain a safe distance behind the primary unit.
d. Assume responsibility for relaying information on pursuit conditions and location
as well as facilitate communications between the primary unit, the EHPSCC, and
the supervisor.
e. Assist the primary unit with the apprehension and security of the suspect when the
motor vehicle pursuit is completed.
f. Assume the role of the primary unit in the event the primary unit is unable to
continue the motor vehicle pursuit; and at which time, the new primary unit shall
evaluate the pursuit and determine if the pursuit should be terminated or
continued.
g. Call for the termination of the pursuit if they feel circumstances exist that would
necessitate termination.
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June 5October 17, 20265
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9. Police officers shall not pursue wrong-way drivers against traffic flow. In the event of
a wrong-way driver, officers shall:
a. Immediately notify dispatch of location, direction, and vehicle description
b. Request units ahead to establish safe intercept
c. Parallel on correct side when safe
d. Use audible warning device and emergency lighting to warn oncoming traffic, and
g.e. Coordinate multi-agency response
C. Supervisory Responsibilities
1. When made aware of a pursuit, an on-duty supervisor shall actively monitor and
manage evaluate the situation and conditions that caused the pursuit to be initiated
and the need to continue the pursuit. The supervisor shall continuously monitor
incoming information and coordinate and direct activities as needed to ensure that
proper procedures are used.
2. Such supervisor shall also have the authority to terminate the pursuit and/or
intervention techniques.
a. When the supervisor communicates a termination directive, all agency vehicles
shall disengage warning devices, and cease the pursuit and acknowledge
termination of the pursuit via radio. Upon termination of the pursuit, all pursuit
vehicles shall pull to the right side of the roadway and stop at the nearest location
where it is practical and safe to do so. .
b. The supervisor will confirm that all units have ceased the pursuit.
3. When feasible, the on-duty supervisor shall respond to the location where a vehicle
has been stopped following a pursuit.
4. The supervisor shall complete a detailed report in the Law Enforcement Administration
System (LEAS) Department Review (DR) reporting module prior to the end of their
shift in accordance with Policies and Procedures # 407 – Use of Force Review and
Investigations.
D. Pursuit Tactics
1. All police units in active pursuit shall space themselves at reasonable and safe distances
to permit adequate braking and reaction times if any preceding vehicle stops, slows,
turns, becomes disabled or collides with any vehicle or object.
2. Police officers not engaged in the pursuit as the primary or secondary unit shall not
normally follow the pursuit on parallel streets unless authorized by a supervisor or
when it is possible to conduct such an operation without unreasonable hazard to other
vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
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June 5October 17, 20265
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3. When feasible, available patrol units having the most prominent markings and
emergency lights shall be used to pursue, particularly as the primary unit.
a. When an unmarked unit initiates a pursuit, the pursuit shall be taken over by a
marked unit when one becomes available. The marked unit will be the primary
unit.
b. The unmarked unit shall disengage altogether when an additional marked unit
becomes available as the secondary unit.
4. Motorcycles may be used for a pursuit in exigent circumstances including, but not
limited to, situations where a crime of violent felonyce has been committed, deadly force
has been used by a vehicle occupant, or the pursuit is necessary to preserve a life, provided
that weather and related conditions allow such pursuit to continue.
a. Motorcycles shall disengage from the pursuit when support from marked patrol
units becomes available.
5. Once the pursued vehicle is stopped, police officers shall utilize appropriate police
officer safety tactics and shall be aware of the necessity to utilize only the force the police
officer reasonably believes to be necessary to take occupants into custody.
E. Stop Intervention Techniques (Alternative Measures)
1. Forced Stop procedures short of deadly, to include but not limited to intentional
collisions, boxing-in, and tire deflation devices, short of deadly physical force, may be
considered to stop a fleeing vehicle only after all other reasonable alternatives have
failed. Forced stop procedures may be considered when the officer reasonably believes
the need for an immediate apprehension outweighs the dangers presented to all parties
involved and innocent persons. The use of roadblocks, ramming or forcing a vehicle
from the roadway, as outlined in this directive, may only be considered when deadly
physical force can be reasonably applied.
2. Forced stop procedures usually present serious safety hazards to participants and any
innocent persons present.
3. Forced stop procedures must be reasonably and properly applied by officers who have
received appropriate training in their use, and have received authorization from his/her
supervisor prior to use, absent exigent circumstances. Roadblocks are prohibited unless
specifically authorized by the on dutyon-duty supervisor after consideration of the
necessity of applying deadly physical force to end the pursuit.
3.4.All intervention techniques short of deadly force shall be used when it is possible to do
so in safety and when the police officers utilizing them have received appropriate
training in their use. Such techniques may include, but not be limited to, boxing- in the
vehicle or using controlled termination devices such as stop sticks.
Deadly Force Considerations:
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June 5October 17, 20265
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5.

4.a. Use of a roadblock, ramming or forcing a vehicle from the roadway may be
employed if deadly physical force can be reasonably applied to apprehend one of
the following persons after all reasonable alternatives have been exhausted or
would be ineffective:.
a.1) 1A dangerous fleeing felon - A person for whom there is reasonable cause
to believe that the person has committed a violent felony involving an actual or
threatened attack which the police officer has reasonable cause to believe could
or has resulted in death or serious physical injury.
2) Any person who is operating a motor vehicle recklessly and in such a manner
as to be reasonably likely to cause death or serious injury to any other person
should they be allowed to continue operation of the vehicle. The officer must
be able to articulate the exigent need to apprehend the operator or occupant
because of the potential harm or risk to the public.
b. Forced stop procedures, to include but not be limited to deliberate contact (e.g.,
Pursuit Intervention Technique, intentional collision, ramming), boxing-in, and
roadblocks may constitute deadly force. Decisions to use any forced stop
procedures shall consider speed, circumstances, and risk level.

6. Roadblocks
b.a. Roadblock means a restriction or obstruction, which is used to prevent the free
passage of motor vehicles on a roadway in order to apprehend the operator of a
fleeing vehicle. A roadblock may be established as a partial, otherwise known as
restrictive, or a complete, otherwise known as obstructive roadblock.
c. Roadblocks are prohibited unless specifically authorized by a supervisor and only
after considering the necessity of applying deadly physical force to end the pursuit.
d.

Roadblocks may only be utilized when officers have received appropriate training
in their use.

7. Boxing-In
a. Boxing-in shall only be performed at relatively low speeds. The use of such a tactic
must be carefully coordinated with all involved vehicles, taking into consideration
the circumstances and conditions apparent at the time, as well as the potential risk
of injury to officers, the public and the occupants of the offending vehicle.
5.
a. Boxing- in normally requires two or more police vehicles to position themselves
around the offending vehicle to form a box at low speeds pursuits. Once the fleeing
vehicle is blocked, the police pursuit vehicles slowly and gradually reduce their
speed, causing the offending vehicle to stop.

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June 5October 17, 20265
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b. It must be anticipated that the offending vehicle may attempt to maneuver past the
lead blocking vehicle or intentionally collide with the blocking vehicles to move
out of the box.
c. Boxing-in techniques may only be utilized by officers who received appropriate
training in its use.
8. Deliberate Contact with Offending Vehicle
a. Type of Deliberate Contact
1) The intentional collision of an offending vehicle is the deliberate contact,
initiated by a police officer,vehicle between a police vehicle and a fleeing the
offender’s vehicle, intended to end a pursuit, which typically occurs at lower
speeds.
2) Pursuit Intervention Technique, commonly known as PIT maneuver, is a
deliberate contact between a police vehicle and a fleeing vehicle and that is
intended tointended to cause the offenderfleeing vehicle to spin or leave the
roadway in a slow and controlled manner.
3) Ramming is a deliberate action where a police vehicle intentionally strikes the
fleeing vehicle with the goal of damaging, slowing, or stopping the fleeing
vehicle. Ramming usually occurs at higher speeds.
6.

a.b. When considering an intentional collision with an offending vehicle, each oOfficers
and supervisors must be aware that these actions may result in serious physical
injury or death and may activate the vehicle airbags or fuel system shut offs causing
the police vehicle to become disabled.
c. Intentional collision techniques may be utilized only when officers have received
appropriate training in their use.
b.d.Initiating deliberate contact is considered a use of force and may be classified as a
deadly force tactic, depending on the circumstances. When considering deliberate
contact, each police officer and supervisor must be aware that these actions may
result in serious physical injury or death. It is typically authorized only under
specific, high-risk circumstances, such as when the suspect has committed a violent
felony and poses an immediate threat to public safety.
9. Tire Deflation Devices
a. Officers trained and authorized by a supervisor in the use of tire deflation devices
(i.e. stop sticks, etc.) may deploy them to stop an offender’s vehicle during a pursuit
or to prophylactically prevent a pursuit.
7.
b. The exception to officers requiring supervisory authority to use tire deflation
devices is the following:
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June 5October 17, 20265
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a.1) Immediate action: Forced stop procedures utilizing the tire deflation devices
shall be reasonable and properly applied, and shall only be Prior to the
deployment of any tire deflation device, applied by police officers who have
received appropriate training in their use and have received the deploying
officer shall seek authorization from theira supervisor., Prior authorization shall
not be required in absent exigent circumstances which iinvolvinge a rapidly
evolving commission of a violent crime, of violence requiring an officer’s
immediate action.
b.c. The officer deploying the tire deflation device will notify other police vehicles
involved that the tire deflation device is about to be deployed and the exact location
of the device. Upon receipt of notification that tire deflation device is about to be
deployed, officers involved will allow a sufficient distance between themselves and
the suspect vehicle in order to avoid contact with the deflating device.
c.d. Officers deploying the tire deflation device should do so from a safe location off
the edge of the roadway, or only when it is safe to enter the roadway.
d.e. The officer deploying the device will advise police vehicles involved when the tire
deflation device has been deployed.
f. Tire deflation devices shall only be used on motor vehicles with four (4) or more
wheels, unless deadly force is justified; to exclude:
1) Motorcycles
e.
1)2) Golf carts.
2)3)

All-terrain vehicles as defined by Connecticut General Statutes § 14-379(4).

3)4)

Vehicles transporting hazardous materials.

4)5)

School buses transporting children.

g. The use of tire deflation devices may be utilized only when officers have received
appropriate training in their use.
e. Pursuit Prevention
10.
f.a. Situations may arise where pPrior to attempting a motor vehicle stop or after
conducting stopping a motor vehicle stop, situations may arise where the officer
reasonably believes that the operator may attempt to escape, elude law enforcement
or otherwise initiate a pursuit. When an officer has a reasonable and articulable
belief that a suspect will attempt to escape, elude law enforcement, or otherwise
initiate a pursuit, Oan officers may consider a prophylactic measure, thereby
preventing the engagement in a pursuit by utilizing a tire deflation device. The
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June 5October 17, 20265
Page 12 of 23

officer employing such measures will comply with all additional requirements
under this directive.
1) If it is apparent, after successful deployment of a pursuit prevention device,
that the offending vehicle has or will become disabled due to the tire deflation
device or other articulable circumstances, officers may continue to trail the
offending vehicle after receiving approval from a supervisor.
2) This continuation shall not constitute a De Facto Pursuit.
8.11. The use of any forcible stopping technique shall be documented in an incident
report. The supervisor reviewing the incident shall conduct a documented
administrative review in the Department Review System addressing any policy
violations or training needs.
F. StarChase Vehicle Tracking
1.2.The StarChase Pursuit Management System (StarChase) may only be used for
legitimate law enforcement purposes by trained officers.
a. StarChase equipment shall only be used when a vehicle:
1) Is wanted in connection to a known felony crime or a crime of violence (e.g.,
stolen vehicle, robbery, burglary, etc.).
2) When the suspect vehicle attempts to leave the scene of a lawful motor vehicle
stop.
3) If probable cause exists that the suspect vehicle is involved in a crime in
progress.
2.3.Officers shall not deploy the StarChase equipment under any of the following
conditions:
a. The vehicle is unoccupied and a search warrant has not been obtained unless there
is reasonable and articulable suspicion that a suspect is about to immediately reenter the vehicle and flee.
b. The vehicle has fewer than four tires/wheels (e.g., motorcycle, moped, etc.).
c. The vehicle has a damaged or missing rear windshield, or the occupants are exposed
(e.g., convertible, ATV, etc.).
d. A prisoner is in the Department patrol vehicle.
e. Weather prevents StarChase equipment efficacy, such as heavy rain or winds.
f. Pedestrians are between or very near the suspect vehicle and the StarChase
equipped vehicle.

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3.4.Officers shall use their own judgement as to whether to affix a StarChase tag upon a
vehicle actively engaged in a criminal investigation and shall seek prior approval from
a supervisor whenever feasible.
4.5.The StarChase equipment can only be deployed in pursuits if the lead vehicle is
equipped with the device.
5.6.The officer shall consider the following when deciding whether to deploy the StarChase
tag:
a. Is it safe to maneuver close enough to the suspect vehicle to come within targeting
range?
b. Do any circumstances indicate the device would not work (e.g., weather conditions,
suspect vehicle weaving)?
6.7.StarChase tags will be deployed in accordance with training. Once the StarChase tag
has been successfully deployed, the following shall be completed:
a. The deploying officer shall indicate over the radio and to EHPSCC that an
activation occurred and provide a description of the vehicle and the offender.
b. The deploying officer and all pursuing vehicles shall cease following the tagged
vehicle unless circumstances meet the criteria for a motor vehicle pursuit or he/she
is approved by a supervisor.
c. Officers following the tagged vehicle shall significantly increase their following
distance unless circumstances meet the criteria for a motor vehicle pursuit.
d. Evaluate the circumstances and conditions of the pursuit, if one was initiated, to
determine if it shall be terminated.
7.8.EHPSCC and/or the supervisor shall utilize the StarChase monitoring software to
provide speed, direction, and location updates on the fleeing vehicle.
a. Officers shall not view the Coreview mapping system while operating a Department
vehicle.
8.9.The on-duty supervisor shall coordinate and direct deployment to safely apprehend the
suspect.
9.10. The device must be removed from the tagged vehicle once the scene is safe. When
possible, the device should not be removed in the presence of the public or other nonlaw enforcement individuals.
10.11. Officers shall complete an incident report for all StarChase deployments. The report
shall include, but is not limited to, the following:
a. The circumstances of the deployment, including the underlying crime committed.

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b. Whether an apprehension was made.
c. Whether the vehicle was located.
d. Whether the tag was removed.
e. Any damage to the vehicle caused by the tag deployment.
12. The Supervisor reviewing the incident shall complete the Department’s StarChase
tracking form.
13. The Internal Affairs/Professional Standards Officer shall conduct an annual
administrative review of data recorded on StarChase deployments to determine
compliance as well as identify any training deficiencies or necessary policy changes.
G. Use of Firearms During a Pursuit
1. Deadly force shall not be directed at a vehicle being pursued merely to disable the
vehicle.
G.
2. Officers engaged in a pursuit shall not discharge his/her firearm from, or at or into a
moving or fleeing vehicle or its occupants, unless:
a. To counter an imminent the occupants are using, or threat of death orened serious
physical injury from an occupant the use of deadly physical force, against the
officer or another person present, by means other than the vehicle.
1.
a.b. This does not preclude exigent circumstances such as, but not limited to,
whereWhen a driver is intentionally placing others in the vehicle’s path causing an
imminent risk of serious injury, such as driving into a crowd of assembled persons
or into an occupied area not intended for vehicular traffic, and the officer
reasonably believes there are no other means available to avert the threat of the
vehicle., or if such vehicle is being utilized as a weapon against the officer(s), or
another person, such as in a vehicle ramming attack.
1) Officers shall not intentionally place themselves in the path of or reach inside a
fleeing vehicle.
c. When an officer is unavoidably in the path of a vehicle and cannot move to safety.
Whenever possible, the involved officer should make an effort to move to an area of
safety if the vehicle becomes a threat, including retreating from the threat, if
practical.Officers shall not intentionally place themselves in the path of or reach inside
a fleeing vehicle. Whenever possible, the involved officer should make an effort to
move to an area of safety if the vehicle becomes a threat, including retreating from the
threat, if practical.
b.3.
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G.H.
Termination of the Pursuit
1. The police officer(s) operating as the primary unit engaged in the pursuit shall
continually re-evaluate and assess the pursuit situation, including all of the initiating
factors, and terminate the pursuit whenever he/shethey reasonably believes that the
risks associated with the continued pursuit are greater than the public safety benefit ofr
making an immediate apprehension.
1.2.The pursuit may be terminated by any of the officers involved in the pursuit, or by a
supervisor at any time.
Any supervisor, regardless of rank, has the authority to order the termination of a
pursuit at any time and shall order the termination of a pursuit when the potential danger
to the public outweighs the need for immediate apprehension. Such decision shall be
based on information known to the supervisor at the time of the pursuit.
2.3.

a. In the event that all on-duty supervisors are of equal rank, the supervisor assigned
as the desk supervisor shall have the primary authority to terminate the pursuit.

3. A pursuit shall be terminated in the event all criteria are met:
a. The identity of the occupants has been determined.
b. Immediate apprehension is not necessary to protect the public or police officers.
c. Apprehension at a later time is feasible.
4. A pursuit shall be terminated when the police officers are prevented from
communicating with their supervisors, the EHPSCC, or other police officers.
5. A pursuit shall be terminated if the pursued vehicle’s location is no longer definitively
known.
6. A pursuit shall be terminated if the police officer knows or is reasonably certain that
the fleeing motor vehicle is being operated by a juvenile and the suspected offense is
not a violent felony.
7. A pursuit shall be terminated if the pursuing police vehicle has sustained damage that
disrupts vehicle operation or has experienced an equipment failure that limits
communication and/or makes continued driving dangerous.
8. No officers or supervisor shall be disciplined for a decision not to engage or disengage
from a vehicle pursuit based on the risk involved even in circumstances where this
directive would permit the commencement or the continuation of the pursuit.
9. When a pursuit is terminated or a failure to stop incident occurs, involved officer(s)
shall immediately:
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a. Turn off emergency lights and sirens.
b. Reduce speed and comply with all traffic laws until it is safe to:
1) Pull to the right side of the road and stop or
2) Turn and drive in the opposite direction of the last seen direction of travel of
the fleeing vehicle or pull to the side of the road and cease movement if on a
limited access roadway when safe and practical to do so.or
3) If on an interstate highway, take the nearest exit and return to Town.
c. Verbally acknowledge that the pursuit has been terminated and the exact location
of termination to EHPSCC and/or an on-duty supervisor.
d.

Provide a description of the suspect vehicle and last known direction of travel.

10. Following the termination of a pursuit, the on dutyon-duty supervisor shall conduct roll
call of all involved officers.
11. In the event a failure to stop or pursuit is terminated and it’s apparent the vehicle has
or will become disabled due to the pursuit prevention devices or other articulable
mechanical circumstances, officers may continue to trail after receiving approval from
a supervisor.
a. This continuation shall not constitute a De Facto Pursuit.
H.I.Interjurisdictional Pursuits
1. Unless unable to do so, Tthe pursuing police officer (primary unit) shall notify the
EHPSCC when it is likely that a pursuit will continue into a neighboring law
enforcementpolice agency’s area of law enforcement responsibility or cross the state
line. Law enforcement agencies shall notify each other whenever entering the other’s
area of law enforcement responsibility.
a. The EHPSCC shall immediately notify the police agency responsible for such area.
2. A pursuit into a bordering state shall comply with the laws of both states and any
applicable interagency agreements.
3. In all cases where a pursuit enters an area of law enforcement responsibility of a law
enforcement unit other than that of East Haven Police Department, the primary unit
shall notify the EHPSCC who shall immediately notify the law enforcement agency
responsible for such area. The on- duty supervisor for the law enforcement agency
responsible for such area shall determine if assistance is necessary and police officers
from law enforcement agencies other than the initiating agency shall not join the
outside pursuit unless:
a. Directed by such on- duty supervisor; or
b. The involved pursuit unit is unable to request assistance; or
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c. The situation demands immediate assistance
2. The supervisors of the respective law enforcement units involved in the pursuit shall
communicate with each other to determine the respective responsibilities of each law
enforcement unit and to determine which law enforcement unit will assume primary
operational control of the pursuit. The supervisors shall also communicate with each
other regarding any external conditions pertinent to the continued conduct of the
pursuit. Communications between law enforcement units shall be controlled by interagency police radio systems, if they exist, or by telephone, or by both.
4.
3.5.When a pursuit enters another jurisdiction, the EHPSCC shall, as soon as practical,
provide the police agency responsible for such area with all the available information
pertinent to the pursuit, including but not limited to:
a. The reason(s) for the pursuit, or primary offense the driver or occupant(s) are
believed to have committed.
b.

Location, speed, and direction of travel.

c. Vehicle and occupant(s) description.
d. The number of vehicles and agencies involved in the pursuit.
e. Whether assistance is requested or /needed or not.
f. Other available information as to the conditions of the pursuit.
3. The EHPSCC will notify the other jurisdiction whether or not a pursuit has been
terminated or is leaving their jurisdiction.
6.
4.7.In all cases where the pursuit enters a municipality without a regularly organized police
department, the EHPSCC shall notify the State Police Troop that is responsible for that
area.
5.8.Officers operating a Department emergency vehicle shall become involved in an
actual pursuit originating outside the Town of East Haven only at the direction of his/
her supervisor or other ranking officer.
a. Such pursuits will only be undertaken to protect the public and officers from the
threat of serious physical injury or death.
a.9. Any agency involved in the pursuit may, at its discretion, choose to terminate its
involvement in a pursuit at any time. The supervisor and the police officers involved
in the pursuit shall make their own determination as to whether their police officers
shall enter, continue, or disengage from the pursuit within their jurisdiction.
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I.J. Intra-jurisdictional Pursuits
1. If a pursuit enters the Town of East Haven, the on-duty supervisor shall determine if
assistance is necessary, and officers shall not join the outside pursuit unless:
a. Directed to do by the on-duty supervisor.
b. The involved pursuit unit is unable to request assistance.
c. The situation demands immediate assistance.
2. The supervisors of the respective police agencies involved in a pursuit shall
communicate with each other to determine the respective responsibilities of each police
agency and to determine which police agency will assume primary operational control
of the pursuit.
3. The supervisors shall also communicate with each other regarding any external
conditions pertinent to the continued conduct of the pursuit.
a. Communications between police agencies shall be controlled by interagency police
radio systems, if they exist, or by telephone, or both.
4. Officers may not join a pursuit that enters East Haven from another jurisdiction
without permission of a supervisor.
5. If an officer from this Department is involved in a pursuit, they may, at their discretion,
choose to terminate their involvement in the pursuit at any time.
6. If an officer from this Department assists another agency in pursuit, and the assisted
agency terminates the pursuit, he/she shall terminate the pursuit.
J.K.
Notifications
1. When death, injury, or property damage are the results of a pursuit, the on-duty
supervisor shall notify the Head of Patrol immediately.
2. When death, serious injuryies, or major property damage is the result of the pursuit,
the Head of Patrol shall contact the Chief of Police immediately.
K.L.
Arrests
1. Once the pursued vehicle is stopped, police officers shall utilize appropriate police
officer safety tactics and shall be aware of the necessity to take occupants into
custody.
L.M.
Accident Investigation
1. The shift commander or patrol supervisor shall investigate an accident that is the
result of a pursuit.
a. They shall have the responsibility of investigating these incidents and their findings
shall be reported to the Head of Patrol.
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2. The shift commander shall notify and request that the Department’s regional accident
reconstruction team, the South Central Connecticut Traffic Unit (SCCTU), report to
the scene of any accident that is the result of a pursuit in which any party involved is
deceased or critically injured.
a. The SCCTU shall have the responsibility of investigating these incidents and their
findings shall be reported to the Head of Patrol.
b. The SCCTU Commander or supervisor on scene may decide after conferring with
the chain of command that a serious injury or fatal accident caused by a pursuit
would be better served being investigated by a third party outside law enforcement
agency. In that event, the SCCTU will assist that agency in anything they need to
conduct the investigation.
3. The Office of the State’s Attorney shall be notified of all accidents involving a serious
injury and/or a fatality.
L.N.
After-Pursuit Reporting
1. Whenever a police officer engages or is involved in a pursuit, the police officer shall
complete an incident report and an Officer Use of Force Report describing the
circumstances, their risk assessment, and actions taken.
a. The officer’s supervisor shall review the reports to determine if departmental
policies have been complied with and to detect and correct any training
deficiencies.
b. The Use of Force reporting protocol described in Policies and Procedures # 407 –
Force Investigations and Review shall be followed.
O. Other Pursuit Considerations
1. High speed operation: A police officer may operate their vehicle at a speed that the
condition of the vehicle, existing road, traffic, environmental conditions, and the
officer’s driving abilities will safely permit.
2. Number of involved pursuit vehicles: No more than three police vehicles shall be
actively involved in a pursuit, unless directed otherwise by a commander, superior
officer, or supervisor, however, all police officers should be alert to the progress and
location of any nearby and ongoing pursuit.
3. Offensive driving tactics are limited. Absent exigent circumstances, deliberate contact
between vehicles (i.e., intentional collision, PIT Maneuver, or ramming) shall not be
attempted unless permission is obtained from a supervisor, in accordance with this
directive.
4. Spacing of Vehicles: All police units in active pursuit shall space themselves at
reasonable and safe distances to permit adequate braking and reaction times if any
preceding vehicle stops, slows, turns, becomes disabled or collides with any vehicle
or object.
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5. Police officers shall operate available emergency warning lights and vehicle siren to
alert other motorists to unexpected pursuit vehicle maneuvers for the duration of the
pursuit.
b.6. A police pursuit vehicle entering any intersection against traffic control signals or
signs shall slow to safe speeds and be prepared to slow or stop to avoid any collision.

M.P.
Police Vehicle Inspection
1. Upon termination of the pursuit, any vehicle which is suspected to have suffered
damage in a pursuit shall immediately be removed from service for inspection.
a. Upon the completion of the inspection, the police vehicle will be returned to
service if the police vehicle has been deemed to be roadworthy.

b. If the inspection reveals that the police vehicle is not roadworthy, the necessary
repairs will be completed accordingly.
Q. Pursuit Management Technology
1. Pursuit Management technology represents an evolving set of tools designed to
reduce the risks associated with vehicle pursuits while maintaining law enforcement’s
ability to apprehend suspects. These technologies include, but are not limited to,
vehicle-mounted and handheld GPS tracking devices, remote vehicle disabling
systems, speed restriction capabilities, and other emerging innovations that allow law
enforcement to monitor and maintain control from a safe distance. Technology should
enhance, not replace, sound judgement in evaluating the initiation, continuation, and
termination of a pursuit. Factors to consider include, but are not limited to:
a. Authorized uses
b. Prohibited uses
c. Operational considerations
d. Legal considerations
e. Safety factors
b.f. Post-deployment procedures

N.R.
Pursuit Review
1. The Department shall periodically analyze its police pursuit activity and identify any
additions, deletions, or modifications warranted in the Department’s pursuit
procedures. The Head of Patrol or his/her designee shall complete a documented annual
review of the pursuit policies and reporting procedures.
2. The Head of Patrol or his/her designee shall conduct and submit a documented annual
analysis of vehicular pursuits of the previous year to the Office of the Chief of Police.
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The annual analysis as approved by the Chief of Police shall, at minimum, contain the
following information:
a. Total number of pursuits.
b. Number of pursuits which resulted in accidents, injuries, death and number of
arrests.
c. The number and types of vehicles involved in accidents.
d. A description of the individuals injured or killed (police, violator, third party).
e. The number of violators involved and arrested in pursuit incidents, including
passengers.
f. Number of offenses charged.
g. Demographics of the offender(s), if known.
h. Noticeable trends.
i. Recent changes in law, civil liability, or best practices.
j. A review of policy and reporting procedures pertaining to vehicular pursuits.
k. Training suggestions.
3. In accordance with Sections 14-283a-1 to 14-283a-4, inclusive, and Section 14-283a
of the Connecticut General Statutes, the Chief of Police or his/her designee shall submit
an annual report, not later than January 31st of the next year, to the Connecticut Police
Officers Standards and Training Council (CT POST) regarding pursuits by police
officers on the standardized form developed and promulgated by POST.
4. The Department shall report its involvement in all pursuits to CT POST on the
designated reporting form indicating whether the Department was the initiating agency
or a secondary unit.
O.S.
Vehicle Pursuit Training
1. Police officers who drive police vehicles shall be given initial and biennial update
training in the agency’s pursuit policy and in safe driving tactics. A documented annual
review of this Directive shall be completed by all sworn personnel. The provisions of
Sections 14- 283a-1 to 14-283a-4, inclusive, shall be a part of the curriculum for all
police basic recruit-training and re-certification programs in Connecticut.
2. Pursuit Training Programs shall consist of:
a. Knowledge of applicable statutes.

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b. Court decisions impacting police pursuits.
c. Department policy and procedures.
d. Supervisory and individual responsibilities in a police pursuit.
e. Reporting requirements.
f. Interjurisdictional considerations.
g. Pursuit driving skills and techniques.
h. Pursuit alternatives.

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