After everything that happened with Johnny, and Dally's death. The rumble. All of it. Steve was severely affected by it, especially Dally's death. He became so weary about police officers that he downright avoided them or hid from them like he was some wanted criminal.

Sure, the others could understand he was a bit more weary. Rightfully so after seeing one of their closest friends die from police shooting him. But it wasn't just weariness at this point.

He was petrified of law infourcement.

He couldn't bear even being near them without reliving seeing Dally get killed that dreaded night.