This section repeals the intrastate hot pursuit law and clarifies police authority to arrest without warrant for certain offenses when there is ongoing danger. It also specifies that warrantless arrests are only permitted under guidelines established by the employing governmental body. The scope of the subchapter limits its application to peace officers in jurisdictions with similar laws.
The law allowing hot pursuit within the state was repealed in 1982, meaning police can no longer rely on that specific law for pursuing suspects across jurisdictions.
Police can arrest without a warrant when they observe certain offenses that threaten personal safety or property, such as disorderly conduct, public drunkenness, or violations of city ordinances, especially if guidelines are followed.
Yes, police officers must follow guidelines promulgated by their employing governmental body when making warrantless arrests under this law.
This law applies only to peace officers of Pennsylvania and its political subdivisions that have laws similar to those outlined, particularly regarding pursuit and arrest procedures.