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 New Hampshire, fleeing from a law enforcement officer who is attempting to lawfully arrest or detain an individual is a criminal offense. This is often referred to as 'fleeing and eluding.' The law requires that the person knows, or reasonably should know, that the individual attempting the arrest or detention is a peace officer or federal special investigator. If the individual uses a motor vehicle or watercraft to flee or evade arrest, the penalties can be more severe. Additionally, if the act of fleeing and eluding results in injury to another person, the offender may face even higher penalties. The specific statutes and penalties can vary, and it is important to consult with an attorney for detailed legal advice regarding such offenses in New Hampshire.