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Criminal charges

evading arrest or detention

A person commits a criminal offense (crime) if they intentionally flee from a person they know or should know is a peace officer or federal special investigator attempting to lawfully arrest or detain them. A person will be subject to higher penalties if they use a motor vehicle or watercraft while evading arrest or detention, or cause injury to another person. This criminal offense is also known as “fleeing and eluding.”

In Hawaii, fleeing and eluding a law enforcement officer is a criminal offense. This occurs when an individual intentionally runs away from someone they are aware, or should be aware, is a peace officer or federal special investigator who is trying to lawfully arrest or detain them. The penalties for this offense are more severe if the individual uses a motor vehicle or watercraft to flee, or if their actions result in injury to another person. The use of a vehicle not only poses a higher risk to public safety but also reflects a greater degree of disregard for the law, which is why the law imposes stricter consequences. The specific charges and penalties can vary based on the circumstances of the evasion, the presence of aggravating factors, and the individual's criminal history. It is important for individuals to understand that compliance with law enforcement is a legal requirement, and failure to do so can lead to significant legal consequences.

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Criminal charges

evading arrest or detention

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Hawaii State Code

Hawaii State Code

Criminal charges

evading arrest or detention

Articles