A Fugitive Apprehension and Search Team (FAST) is a multi-agency, collaborative law enforcement effort supported by the U.S. Marshals service. FAST operations involve the Pennsylvania State Police, the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections and local law enforcement agencies throughout the Commonwealth. These teams specialize in locating and apprehending the most violent offenders in order to ensure the safety of our communities. Pennsylvania law currently does not afford parole agents the ability to safely and effectively apprehend absconders and escapees. Currently, these vehicles are not included in the definition of the term “emergency vehicle.” This prohibits them from having sirens and emergency lights and prevents those FAST members, who are parole agents, from being able to fully carry out their duties, with proper notice.
 
My proposal will be intentionally limited in scope and include clear safeguards, training requirements and policy oversight. This will allow FAST officers to be more transparent during fugitive apprehension and search efforts. This legislation will address a gap that currently exists for FAST members who are parole agents, allowing those agents to respond more effectively and safely during time-sensitive situations while maintaining appropriate accountability.
 
Please join me in sponsoring this important legislation to provide members of FAST the tools they need to protect our communities.