Well of course they could. First, tho, just so the bad guys know the rules of engagement,the cops would send the bad guys a note:
Dear Bad Guys,
Please don't shoot at us in a heavily populated area, especially not in a school zone. Please hold your fire until you have reached a deserted stretch of the road where the speed limit is at least 55mph.
If you agree, please check the box by YES_____ If you don't agree, please mark NO____.
Works everytime, because these killer criminals are well-mannered and concerned about the safety of their fellow citizens.
You'd be singing a different tune if you were burying your child or spouse because one of those rounds took their life...from the thugs gun or the officers weapon.
Many would defend these actions till the cows come home...until it was YOUR loved one that was killed by the errant round. Then you'd sing the blues all the way to civil court suing the crap outta the police force.
I hope the cop begins a new career at Walmart loss prevention with a can of pepper spray instead of spraying .40SW.
LOL!
Stupid cop is rapid firing thtough the winshield while speeding with both hands off the sterring wheel.