There is a lot of discussion today as to whether high-speed police chases should result in stiffer sentences for the offenders.

Is it not the primary purpose of the police officer to protect the public? If the high-speed chase results in the injury or death of innocent bystanders and others – even the police officer as is sometimes possible – is the chase the best way to protect the public?

Often the driver being pursued is guilty of a minor infraction. Would it not be better to apprehend the violator without a high-speed chase even if it takes more time? If the violator temporarily escapes, he frequently can be caught later.

I recall hearing one police officer say during a television interview that he loves the high-speed chase because of the exciting adrenaline rush that it gives him. This may be so, but at what price?

Leland Bechtel, Weld