[jazusamo]

When there is a police helicopter overhead, a shot straight down would have little chance of hitting some innocent bystander.

Moreover, this would not have to happen more than a few times before leading the police on a high-speed chase would lose a lot of its attractions

The voice of reason again from Dr. Sowell.

[jazusamo]

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[Fee]

Shatter upon impact .50 cal round fired from a helicopter at the engine compartment of the car from above would do the trick. Such a round would penetrate the hood, shatter when it hits the engine block, but the fragmentation would cut up the radiator, hoses, belts and other soft plastic/rubber components. The engine area would start to leak and smoke and eventually the engine would overheat and seize up. Would be hell of a paperwork writeup for insurance purposes for the owner.

[Popocatapetl]

To address the root of the problem is to encourage people to have a system in their car that allows it to be shut down remotely.

That is, if you have a type of car commonly stolen, or you just know that you will never have any reason to try and outrun the police, a single electronic component could be added to your vehicle.

If your car is trying to evade the police, then they call your service, like OnStar, and your service turns your car off.

And if you want to play it safe, if the police notify your service, then your service could page you and confirm that you want your vehicle shut down. This would be useful if someone stole your license plates and you’re driving on the other side of town.

[papasmurf]

Yeah, except I doubt he has tried to shoot a quick moving target from a moving target.

Well intended, not well thought out.

[ArmstedFragg]

Nothing is easier than taking cheap shots at the police, and there are journalists and politicians who do it regularly, as well as community activists who make a career out of it.

This is pretty funny in the context of a nearby post about a Bakerfield shooting where a reporter asked the chief why the officers didn't just shoot the guy in the foot.

[george76]

We agree ; plus the police should have the requirement to use immediate deadly force if the perp is headed to a school or other populated area.

The police should take out any runner any way possible : guided rocket...

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When there is a police helicopter overhead, a shot straight down would have little chance of hitting some innocent bystander.

Moreover, this would not have to happen more than a few times before leading the police on a high-speed chase would lose a lot of its attractions

[Just another Joe]

The only statement by Dr. Sowell I take exception to in this article - But the police are the last line of defense for the law-abiding population.

Excuse my Polish, but that's bullski chitski.

The last line of defence for the law abiding citizen is themselves.