Under LEPRA 2002, why might police stop a person who is fleeing?

The correct answer is that police might stop a person who is fleeing to prevent them from escaping from a police officer or from the location of the offence. Under the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 (LEPRA) in New South Wales, police have a responsibility to uphold the law and ensure public safety, which includes apprehending individuals who are attempting to evade law enforcement.

When a person flees, it often raises immediate concerns about the continuation of unlawful activity or potential danger to the community. Stopping someone in this context is a proactive measure to prevent further harm or to enforce compliance with police authority. The law empowers officers to act in such situations to maintain order and ensure that individuals are accountable for their actions.

The other options do not accurately encompass the legal basis for police stopping a fleeing person. Issuing a fine or collecting demographic information does not warrant immediate action against someone fleeing, as these are not justifications under LEPRA for stopping a subject who is actively evading law enforcement. Checking a vehicle for safety compliance may also occur but is unrelated to the immediate concerns that arise when a person is fleeing.