Before engaging in a vehicle pursuit, what must an officer do in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, before engaging in a vehicle pursuit, it is essential for an officer to weigh the necessity and risks of the pursuit. This consideration ensures that officers assess the situation thoroughly, taking into account the potential dangers to the public, the law enforcement personnel involved, and the suspect. By evaluating the urgency and justification for continuing the chase, officers can make informed decisions that prioritize safety and public welfare.

Balancing the need to apprehend a suspect with the risks associated with high-speed pursuits is crucial. Pursuits can often escalate situations and lead to accidents, injuries, or fatalities. This critical decision-making process is part of the broader responsibility officers have to act judiciously in the line of duty, ensuring they are not putting innocent lives at risk.

Other options, while they may hold relevance in different contexts, do not encompass the primary requirement associated with vehicle pursuits in South Dakota. Engaging with a supervisor can be part of a department's policy, but it is not always a prerequisite before starting a pursuit. Notifying the public through sirens is a practice that helps alert others on the road but doesn’t replace the need to assess the situation carefully. Documenting reasons for pursuits may be an important administrative task, but it does not occur prior to