Ongoing Research on Pursuit Management

NIJ supports development of innovative and precise technologies to make high-speed car chases safer. The Institute's goals are:

• To end high-speed pursuits before they endanger lives or damage property.
• To catch criminals before they escape.

The newest technology uses high-powered microwaves and electrostatic discharge to stop car engines.

Stopping Cars at a Distance

Radiofrequency. One project is looking at stalling a car by directing radiofrequency radiation at the vehicle’s engine. The radiation would come from an antenna that could be placed on a patrol car or helicopter. Eureka Aerospace is performing this research with NIJ funding.

Another NIJ-funded effort examines use of intelligent waveforms (e.g., radiofrequency emission) to stop vehicles from a distance. A final prototype is expected in 2008 from Fiore Industries.

Collaboration with the Department of Defense. NIJ is collaborating with the Department of Defense's Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Directorate (JNLWP) to study how effectively radiofrequency radiation works to stop vehicles. NIJ and the JNLWP have similar needs with varying requirements. By investing in radiofrequency technology together, both obtain the knowledge they require.

Electrostatic discharge. A new technology stalls cars by emitting a series of electromagnetic pulse discharges. During the latest testing, 40 percent of test shots (discharges) stopped vehicles on the first shot. Future research and development will allow the technology, called the Road Sentry™, to be triggered remotely during pursuit.