August 26, 2025 | Criminal Law
Encounters with law enforcement are stressful, and many people panic when they see flashing lights or hear a knock on the door. In Kentucky, however, avoiding or running from the police can worsen an already difficult situation. State law treats actions like fleeing, resisting, or ignoring lawful commands as criminal conduct, and the penalties can follow you long after the incident is over.
If you or someone you love is facing charges as a defendant related to avoiding the police, it is important to learn about how Kentucky law views these offenses and what steps you can take to protect your rights.
Evading or Fleeing the Police Under Kentucky Law
One of the most common charges connected to avoiding officers is “fleeing or evading police.” This crime applies when someone intentionally flees after being given a signal or command to stop.
Kentucky divides it into two levels:
- First-degree fleeing or evading police is a Class C felony. It can apply if you are driving and create a substantial risk of death or injury to others, or if you are fleeing after committing another serious crime.
- Second-degree fleeing or evading police is a Class D felony. This usually involves running on foot after being told to stop, without the additional risk factors present in first-degree cases.
Both charges can lead to serious penalties, including jail time as well as a criminal record.
Resisting Arrest
Regardless of whether the initial reason for the police encounter seems minor, resisting arrest can quickly escalate the situation. In Kentucky, resisting arrest occurs when someone uses physical force, threatens force, or otherwise attempts to prevent an officer from lawfully placing them under arrest.
Although this offense is usually charged as a Class A misdemeanor, a conviction can still result in jail time up to 12 months and substantial fines. Instead of resisting, the right approach is to comply in the moment and challenge the arrest later in court with the help of a criminal defense attorney.
Additional Consequences of Avoiding the Police
These situations often create a chain reaction of legal problems, such as:
- More charges: Fleeing or resisting can be added on top of the crime the officer suspected you of in the first place.
- Harsher penalties: Judges may be less inclined to show leniency if they believe a defendant ran from the police or refused to cooperate.
- Danger to yourself and others: High-speed chases or physical struggles increase the risk of injury, which can also lead to a civil lawsuit.
In some cases, avoiding the police can turn a manageable situation into one that carries years of prison time.
What To Do Instead of Avoiding the Police in Kentucky
If you are stopped or confronted by the police in Kentucky, the safest option is usually to remain calm and comply with basic instructions. This does not mean giving up your rights. You should:
- Stay silent beyond giving your name and identification.
- Politely decline any searches unless the officer has a warrant.
- Ask for a lawyer as soon as possible.
Exercising these rights prevents you from giving the police more evidence and allows your attorney to fight back.
Contact the Louisville Criminal Defense Attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers For Help Today
Avoiding the police may seem like a split-second decision, but doing so can have lasting legal consequences in Kentucky. From misdemeanor resisting arrest to felony fleeing and evading charges, the penalties are severe and far-reaching.
If you or someone you know has been accused of avoiding the police, don’t wait to get legal advice. Contact Suhre & Associates, DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a trusted Louisville criminal defense lawyer.
For more information, contact the criminal defense attorneys at Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers give us a call today at (502) 371-7000 or visit us at our Louisville Law Office.
Suhre & Associates DUI and Criminal Defense Lawyers – Louisville
214 Clay Street, Suite A,
Louisville, KY 40202
(502) 371-7000
