May 20, 2009

Governor Riley Signs “Officer Keith E. Houts Act” Strengthening Penalties for Fleeing Law Enforcement

MONTGOMERY - Governor Bob Riley on Wednesday signed into law a bill that strengthens penalties for those who attempt to elude law enforcement officers.

“When someone flees, they put themselves in danger, innocent people in danger and the law enforcement officers chasing them in danger. I hope these tougher penalties will make someone think twice if they get the idea of trying to outrun the police,” said Governor Riley.

The new law, sponsored by Senator Rusty Glover, makes intentionally eluding an officer by any means punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine up to $2,000. If a person is harmed or killed during the chase, the crime becomes a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000.

Under the new law, those who attempt to elude police will also have their driver’s license suspended for a period of time of six months to two years.

The new law is named the “Officer Keith E. Houts Act” in honor of a Montgomery police officer who was killed in 2006 by motorist while conducting a traffic stop. The killer fled and was captured in Georgia.