Washington Sheriff issues scathing warning to smash-and-grab thieves: ‘We’ll chase you’

Thurston County, Washington, Sheriff Derek Sanders warned smash-and-grab thieves that deputies will now be able to chase them under certain conditions.

"If you come to Thurston County, and you decide you're gonna do tens of thousands of dollars to one of our businesses in damage, you're gonna smash that stolen car, and you're gonna hop in your buddy's stolen car and flee from the scene; we're now going to chase you," Sanders said. "We're not pulling over, and the state's law is no longer going to protect you."  Sanders said that vehicles used to smash into stores will now be treated as deadly weapons under a new interpretation of a state law, allowing deputies to chase after suspects. (Thurston County Sheriff) Under current state law, such burglaries are considered second-degree offenses, which do not allow deputies to chase suspects. (Thurston County Sheriff)

Authorities are not allowed to pursue suspects in burglaries under current state law, which considers the crime a second-degree offense, according to Sanders.