Code Blue: Removal of Tires

Code Blue is declared when suspects are actively fleeing in a vehicle and present an ongoing risk to officers through vehicle-based aggression or dangerous evasion tactics. This status allows officers to take non-lethal measures to immobilize a suspect vehicle by disabling its tires.

Code Blue applies strictly to vehicle-related incidents.

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Actions Permitted Under Code Blue:

• Officers must exit their vehicle and shoot out one to two tires of the suspect vehicle to disable it.

• Tire shots must be deliberate, controlled, and from a stationary position on foot.

• Officers may not shoot from within a moving or stationary vehicle unless lethal force has already been used by suspects from a vehicle. Then refer to Code Red protocols.

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Situations That Justify a Code Blue Include:

• A suspect refuses to leave a scene after three clear verbal warnings and begins using their vehicle to PIT, ram, or endanger officers.

• A suspect who is armed and fleeing poses an ongoing deadly threat and ignores repeated commands or continues pursuit after a sustained period.

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Accountability Clause:

Code Blue is not to be used casually or as a power advantage. It is a tactical tool for safety—not a method of punishment.

Officers found to be abusing Code Blue, failing to follow proper procedure, or using it without just cause will be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from the department.