What crime is committed if a driver attempts to flee from an officer in the lawful discharge of official duty?

When a driver attempts to flee from an officer who is acting in the lawful discharge of official duties, the situation typically constitutes a felony offense. This categorization reflects the seriousness of the act of evading law enforcement, which not only undermines public safety but also challenges the authority of law enforcement officers.

The rationale behind this classification derives from the potential risks involved when a driver chooses to flee. Such actions can lead to high-speed chases, endanger not only the fleeing individual but also other motorists, pedestrians, and law enforcement personnel. Given that fleeing from an officer can escalate a situation—potentially leading to collisions, injuries, or even fatalities—law enforcement agencies and legal systems treat this behavior with increased severity. Thus, categorizing it as a felony emphasizes the state's stance on the importance of compliance with lawful directives from officers.

In contrast, lesser offenses such as misdemeanors or petty misdemeanors do not reflect the same level of danger or seriousness associated with fleeing. A gross misdemeanor, while severe, still does not convey the grave implications of a pursuit initiated by a driver attempting to evade law enforcement.