Did you know that suspects in police chases get away 35% of the time? The study conducted by the International Association of Chiefs of Police in 2015 also found that nearly 36% of police chases end when the suspect stops on his own. Recently a New Jersey resident – of the genus Equus – went on the lamb. Would she make a clean getaway or turn herself in?
On May 19, Snickers a 12-year-old mare, escaped her confine and made a gallant run for freedom. Responding to multiple 911, New Jersey State Troopers were dispatched to the local Wawa convenience store. Witnesses had seen Snickers lingering suspiciously in the vicinity. Unfortunately, by the time Troopers arrived that shifty Snickers was already gone.
Within minutes a flurry of new 911 calls sent Troopers 4 miles down the state highway where Snickers was identified galloping along the shoulder of Route 83. Trooper Desirae Kramer concerned for both horse and oncoming traffic maneuvered her police vehicle behind Snickers and turned on the patrol lights. To her astonishment, Snickers immediately slowed down then stopped on the side of the road and stood quietly.
“I got out of my car and just stuck my hand out. When she didn’t bite, I just threw a rope around her neck,” Trooper Kramer said.
Soon Snicker’s owner arrived to take her home. Trooper Kramer said she was happy with the outcome.
“Everybody is safe, and there were no charges.”
And the 2017 International Association of Chiefs of Police statistics will include a special line item for police chases that end when a four–legged suspect stops on her own 100% of the time.
