Cannon makes the right call

Last week's high-speed chase involving Charleston County sheriff's deputies has left disquieting questions about the way it was conducted, as well as its aftermath. Sheriff Al Cannon has asked the State Law Enforcement Division to expand its investigation to cover all aspects of the incident and to recommend any disciplinary action it deems appropriate. It's a wise request, and one that SLED should honor.

In a letter to SLED on Wednesday, Sheriff Cannon acknowledged that an investigation of the high-speed chase is outside of SLED's usual routine. But he makes a good case why it should be part of the ongoing review.

"Because I actually acted in the McManus pursuit, I do not believe that my agency has the capability of conducting an unbiased internal affairs investigation which would normally ensue following an incident such as this," Mr. Cannon wrote.

Indeed, the sheriff's actions following the pursuit already are under investigation by SLED, at his request. Mr. Cannon acknowledges cursing the suspect and slapping him in the face after he had been handcuffed.

SLED also is investigating the use of firearms by the department, as required by state law. Sheriff Cannon and deputies fired at the fleeing vehicle in Francis Marion National Forest in an effort to shoot out its tires. And eventually they were able to do so.

Additional information about the speed reached by one lieutenant in an unmarked car during the chase have raised further questions about the extent to which the department's regulations regarding high-speed chases were followed. The car in question achieved speeds as high as 134 mph and whizzed by other police vehicles as it closed in on the suspect after starting some 40 miles away.

Department policy clearly limits the involvement of unmarked vehicles in high-speed chases. Indeed, it recommends that only two law enforcement vehicles follow in pursuit, though there is leeway for additional vehicles for tactical support. According to our latest report, a dozen vehicles were involved, including Mr. Cannon's own unmarked vehicle.

A "global investigation," as sought by Sheriff Cannon, should help expedite findings in each area of concern, recognizing that the sooner the incident can be addressed in its totality, the better. As Sheriff Cannon observed, "Memories fade."

SLED should quickly approve the sheriff's request for its additional involvement. Doing so will provide needed oversight and accountability for the department.

SLED should be willing to go the extra mile to bring this matter to a timely resolution.