A surge in police chases across Metro Detroit has prompted Warren Police Commissioner Bill Dwyer to advocate for stiffer penalties for suspects attempting to evade law enforcement. Dwyer highlights the increasing frequency of pursuits, stating that many jurisdictions no longer engage in chases due to perceived inadequacies in the existing laws.
Expressing his frustration, Dwyer proposes mandatory two-year sentences for individuals attempting to flee from the police as a deterrent to reduce pursuits. He criticizes the current situation, citing a recent policy shift even by the state police, which no longer pursues stolen vehicles. Dwyer contends that most departments have adopted a similar non-pursuit stance.
Last week, Warren police experienced a notable increase in pursuits, with nearly four incidents occurring in a 24-hour period. One pursuit led to the arrest of 26-year-old Michael Antonio Adkins of Detroit. Dash cam footage captures Adkins colliding with cars and backing into a police cruiser on I-94 during his attempt to evade arrest.
Despite the challenges, Dwyer emphasizes that the pursuits are closely monitored, with a recent chase spanning over 10 miles but deemed safe due to real-time supervision by a department supervisor. The police successfully apprehended Adkins, who faces 18 various counts, including 13 counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and felonious assault.
Adkins had 19 traffic warrants for his arrest, no driver’s license, and a history of felony convictions for cocaine and heroin delivery, along with evading arrest. Dwyer emphasizes the suspect’s violent criminal history and the multiple reasons behind his attempt to flee from law enforcement.
As police chases become more frequent, Commissioner Dwyer’s call for stricter penalties aims to address the safety concerns associated with pursuits while ensuring accountability for those attempting to evade justice. The proposal reflects ongoing discussions on the balance between law enforcement’s pursuit of suspects and minimizing risks to public safety.
