What happens if I'm stopped and searched

If you are stopped you will first be asked some questions:

• What are you doing?
• Where are you going?
• What are you carrying?

Not everything is a 'Stop'

Not every conversation with a police officer is a 'Stop'!

You have not been stopped if for example:

• You stop an officer to ask for directions
• You have witnessed a crime and are questioned about it to establish background to the incident
• You are in an area where a crime has recently occurred and are questioned about what you might have seen

In these instances you will not be given a form.

However if you feel that you have been stopped, you can insist that the police officer or PCSO give you a form. The officer can only refuse if doing so might be disruptive to other police activity.

What happens if I'm searched?

Following on from the initial questions a police officer may decide to search you. This can only be done if they have a good reason, for example, that you fit the profile of a criminal seen in the area, or they think you're acting suspiciously.

The search will take place in the street. If the officer asks you to remove more than your coat or gloves, or items you wear for religious reasons, they must take you somewhere out of public view.

You'll be asked to turn out you pockets and show the officer the contents of any bags you might have with you. An officer may even search your vehicle, but they must leave a notice explaining what they have done.

If you are carrying something illegal, such as a weapon, or the police believe you have committed a crime, you may be arrested.

What information will I need to supply?

You do not have to supply your name, address or date of birth if you are stopped and searched unless you are being reported for an offence.

It is however useful that you describe your ethnic origin when asked as this is how we monitor disproportionate stopping of ethnic minorities and encourage police accountability.

The officer will fill out a form containing the reason for stopping you, the outcome of the stop and search and their name. This information will not be held against you unless you are charged with an offence.