その警官は泥棒を追っていた。

that (something or someone distant from the speaker, close to the listener; actions of the listener, or ideas expressed or understood by the listener); the; um...; er...; uh...

policeman

topic marker particle; indicates contrast with another option (stated or unstated); adds emphasis

thief; burglar; robber; theft

indicates direct object of action; indicates subject of causative expression; indicates an area traversed; indicates time (period) over which action takes place; indicates point of departure or separation of action; indicates object of desire, like, hate, etc.

to chase; to run after; to pursue; to follow (i.e. a set order, a trend); to drive out; to oust; to expel; to drive (i.e. a herd); (in passive voice) to be pressed (for time, etc.)