The Monticello Police Department wants to make the public—especially young drivers and young adults—aware of significant changes to Kentucky’s Fleeing & Evading law.
Unfortunately, more drivers across Kentucky are choosing to flee from law enforcement during traffic stops. As a result, the penalties have become much more severe.
Fleeing or Evading Police – 1st Degree
Increased from a Class D Felony to a Class C Felony Punishable by 5–10 years in prisonFleeing or Evading Police – 2nd Degree
Increased from a Class A Misdemeanor to a Class D Felony Punishable by 1–5 years in prisonIf you are convicted of either offense:
• You must serve at least 50% of your sentence before becoming eligible for probation or parole.
• Probation and diversion are not available.
• A conviction means you are going to prison.
Many of the people committing these offenses are young adults with little or no criminal history. One bad decision can permanently change your future with a felony conviction, prison time, and consequences that follow you for the rest of your life.
More importantly, fleeing puts everyone in danger—including law enforcement officers, innocent motorists, passengers, pedestrians, and yourself.
The solution is simple: If you see emergency lights behind you, safely pull over. Follow the officer’s instructions and handle any concerns through the legal process afterward.
Remember…
Our patrol cars may look fast, but the paperwork is even faster.
And unlike a speeding ticket, a felony isn’t something you can just pay online and forget about.
Do yourself—and everyone else—a favor.
Pull over. Stay safe. Don’t turn a traffic stop into a prison sentence