Updated at: 12/02/2009 9:51 AM
By: Katie Nordeen
KNordeen@wdio.com

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Stop Sticks; Why Duluth P.D. Doesn't Use Them

During high speed pursuits, most law enforcement agencies have the option of deploying these stop sticks.

When they are used properly, authorities say it is a way to take out the tires of the fleeing vehicle, forcing the driver to come to a stop.

The Minnesota State Patrol says that is exactly what finally brought to an end-- Saturday's 120 mile pursuit that started in Mora, went through Duluth, and ended finally at Knife River on Highway 61. 

The State Patrol's Lt. Quint Stainbrook said several stop sticks were thrown out, but the driver was able to avoid most of them. Eyewitness News has learned, at that time, the driver allegedly swerved at the officers.

"Human behavior is unpredictable, and when you have someone fleeing the police there is already that high level of risk," said Duluth Police Deputy Chief Mike Tusken. "The unpredictablility goes up."

According to Tusken, that is exactly why the Duluth Police Department stopped using the stop sticks two years ago. Based on the geography of the city, Tusken says officers were often "too exposed" and creating themselves as an easy target.

Tusken says the department's decision stems from a tragedy. Back in September 2005, a Lino Lakes police officer was killed as he tried to deploy speed sticks on Interstate 35. The fleeing driver struck and killed the officer.

"When it happens just a hundred miles down the highway in Minnesota, it really hits home," said Tusken.

Many agencies still use stop sticks-- including Superior Police, St Louis County, Carlton County, and the State Patrol. Several of the agencies say officers undergo a very in-depth training, and are taught to look at the device as one of many tools.

Charges are still pending in Kenabec County, against the driver in Saturday's pursuit. The State Patrol says he remains hospitalized with non-life threatening injuries.