My name is E.D. Lucas, I am the Chief of Police for the very small city of Bayou Vista on the outskirts of Galveston Texas.
I was a patrol lieutenant, patrol sergeant and patrol deputy for the Harris County Sheriff's Department for over 20 years.. I mention this to show that I have actually been on the streets and involved in many pursuits. In 1982, I shot and killed a young boy that was fleeing in a stolen vehicle. In 1991, I was the lead vehicle in a pursuit that reached speeds of 100mph+ and the suspect went the wrong way on Interstate 45 towards Dallas. I have witnessed pursuits that ended with deputies dying after a crash. I could mention other pursuits that ended in injury or death but it is not necessary at this time. 
    The penalty in Texas for Fleeing, evading arrest is a State Jail Felony. The punishment is very minor considering the risk to police officers and the general public.
   I content that until the Texas Legislature enacts laws that truly punish the fleeing drivers, protect the police officers from lawsuits and allow deadly force then there should not be another vehicle chase in Texas.
    Example of truly punishing drivers that flee from the police.
1.    Life in prison
2.    Seize all of his assets.
3.    If he is released because we all know (life does not mean life) he shall never be able to purchase or own any large items, home, vehicle, etc.
    I know all the arguments about the consequences for allowing criminals to flee however ask the family of a victim that was killed in a pursuit crash if they think the pursuit was worth it. How about the officer that was paralyzed or the child that lost her legs. The list goes on and on of carnage and damage caused during a vehicle chase. Look at what happens to police officers that use excessive force after a chase. 
    I will not allow my officers to get involved in a vehicle chase for any reason.
There is not a crime that a criminal can commit that is worth the life of an officer or innocent civilian.
 
Thank you
Ed Lucas
Chief of Police
Bayou Vista, Texas