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 Maine, the act of fleeing from a law enforcement officer who is attempting to lawfully arrest or detain an individual is considered a criminal offense known as 'fleeing and eluding.' If a person knowingly runs away from someone they recognize, or reasonably should recognize, as a peace officer or federal special investigator, they are committing this crime. The penalties for this offense are more severe if the individual uses a motor vehicle or watercraft to evade arrest or detention. 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 current state laws or an attorney for detailed information regarding this offense in Maine.