Bill Creates Increased Penalties for those who Flee Law Enforcement

COLUMBUS – State Representative Kevin Miller (R-Newark) recently presented sponsor testimony on House Bill 580, legislation striving to increase public safety. 

House Bill 580 will increase penalties for those who choose to engage in the extremely dangerous and reckless behavior of fleeing from law enforcement in a motor vehicle. 

“House Bill 580 is a pro-law enforcement piece of legislation aimed at reducing the prevalence of dangerous and reckless vehicle pursuits while holding those who engage in these actions accountable to appropriate penalties and sanctions,” said Miller. 

Recently, police departments throughout the county have been adopting no chase/pursuit policies, which have resulted in a 33% increase in vehicle pursuits over the past 5 years according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. 

This legislation would increase the penalty for fleeing from law enforcement officers from a 1st degree misdemeanor to a 4th degree felony at minimum in all cases.

House Bill 580 now awaits a second hearing in the Ohio House Criminal Justice Committee.