It’s likely that you have previously heard about stop and search, but may not know why and when the police would carry out this act. Our latest post discusses the law surrounding the stop and search procedure and what you can expect to happen if you are stopped by the police to be searched. We’ve also included some insightful statistics for stop and search procedures carried out in Derby.
When Could I be Stopped and Searched?
It is important to know that you will only be stopped and search by the police if they reasonably believe that you have items upon your person that could be used to carry out crime or that you have evidence on you that is linked to a crime, such as a weapon etc.
What Will Happen During the Search?
If you are stopped by a police officer to be searched, they must inform you of their name and the police station they work at. You should be informed of why you have been stopped/and or searched, the power the police officer has exercised to stop you and be treated with respect and dignity throughout the search.
In some cases, you may need to remove more than your jacket, outer coat or gloves and where this happens, you will be taken out of public view, which could be a police vehicle or police station. Where you need to remove more than footgear or headgear, this should always be done in the presence of an officer the same sex as you.
Stop and Search Statistics – Derby
During July 2018 and December 2018, 830 stop and searches were carried out around Derby. Of the 830 carried out, 231 had a police outcome and 582 had no further action taken. Of the searches that had a police outcome, in 93% of cases, the outcome was linked to the reason for the search.
Call Broadbents Solicitors for Advice
If you think that a search was carried out unlawfully or that the evidence found you during the search was not enough to charge you with a crime, we can help. Call our specialist team for advice today using the local numbers at the top of this screen. Alternatively, you can send your enquiry through to our online contact form and we’ll get back to you shortly.
