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Watch: Grappler takes off stolen car’s rear axle after suspect tries to flee

Video from Livonia PD shows a cruiser pulling the fleeing car to a stop with the Grappler; the driver attempts to maneuver away, removing the suspect vehicle’s rear axle in the process

LIVONIA, Mich. —Livonia police released dash camera footage showing a recent deployment of a Grappler to bring a high-speed pursuit to a halt, WTOL reported.

The Livonia Police Department, assisting Michigan State Police, used the device to stop astolen vehicle, according to a social media post.

The Grappler works by launching a high-strength net from a pursuing police vehicle onto the rear tire and axle of the suspect’s vehicle. Once entangled, the net locks the tire in place, bringing the vehicle to a controlled stop within seconds, police said.

Video shows the suspect driver attempting to escape by rapidly accelerating and reversing, but the Grappler held firm. The force of the maneuvers caused the vehicle’s rear axle to break off, an outcome police noted is not typical when using the device.

Three individuals were arrested at the scene, according to the report. No injuries were reported.

The Livonia Police Department praised the tool for enhancing pursuit safety and minimizing the risks often associated with high-speed pursuit.

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Joanna Putman is an Associate Editor and newswriter at Police1, where she has been covering law enforcement topics since August 2023. Based in Orlando, Florida, she holds a journalism degree from the University of Florida and spent two years working in nonprofit local newsrooms, gaining experience in community-focused reporting. Married to a law enforcement officer, she works hard to highlight the challenges and triumphs of those who serve and protect. Have a news tip? Email her at news@lexipol.com