The power to stop and search to protect
What will happen?
The police have the power to stop and search to protect members of the community.
We know being stop and searched can be a scary or annoying process but remember it is an important tool the police have to keep us safe.
Remember, stay calm and polite and if you are in doubt of anything that is happening, ask questions.
What you can expect?
Before you’re searched the police officer must tell you:
- You are being detained for a search
- their surname and police station
- what they expect to find, eg drugs
- the reason they want to search you, eg you match the detailed description of someone reported to be offering drugs for sale; this cannot be just because of your race age or gender.
- why they are legally allowed to search you
- that you can have a record of the search and if this isn’t possible at the time, how you can get a copy
If the police are not in uniform they must show you their warrant cards / ID; Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) must be in uniform.
You should be treated fairly and courteously.