The Basics of Stop and Search of Individuals

Being a police officer carries responsibilities in keeping the safety of the public. On some occasions where individuals may be a threat, the police can verify the suspicion and act accordingly. The police of England and Wales exercise legal powers to stop and search the concerned individual.

The police officer should have “reasonable cause” to stop and search an individual. Usually, individuals who are suspected of catalysing disturbances or crimes are stopped for questioning. They can be searched for implements, such as weapons, drugs and stolen properties.

There are laws governing the stop and search power. For instance, the officer is required to be in uniform or to present their warrant card when giving stop orders. Further, the officer must provide preliminary information prior to searching, such as his/her name and police station, the “reasonable cause,” etc. The officer should also stick to the provided restrictions on the manner, place and extent of conducting searches.

Aside from the specified limits of the power, the individuals to be stopped and searched have ample rights as well, one of which is being given a form or written copy accounting the conducted stop and search. This can be used by the individual if he/she thinks that a misuse in power or unfairness was exhibited by the officer.

The CKP course module on searching individuals provides more detailed discussions on the matter. With this, the police officers and constables are well-guided in their actions should the need to exercise this power arise.