VOLUSIA COUNTY, FL — Sheriff Michael J. Chitwood made headlines after personally stopping a reckless driver using a precision immobilization technique (PIT) maneuver in an unmarked vehicle — a bold move rarely carried out by law enforcement leaders themselves.

The PIT maneuver, first developed in 1988 by BSR Inc., involves a controlled strike to a fleeing vehicle’s rear bumper, forcing it to spin and stop. Sheriff Chitwood’s use of the tactic drew attention not only for its effectiveness but also because of the risks involved.

According to a 2021 National Institute of Justice study, PIT maneuvers were linked to 30 fatalities between 2016 and 2020, often in traffic pursuits that began as minor infractions. While controversial, supporters argue the tactic can save lives by preventing dangerous high-speed chases from escalating further.

In this case, the maneuver ended the pursuit without reports of serious injury. Sheriff Chitwood’s decisive action was praised by some residents as an example of strong leadership, though others noted the dangers inherent in such aggressive tactics.