NCJ Number
158042
Date Published
1986
Length
14 pages
Annotation
England's Police and Criminal Evidence Act of 1984 represents an attempt to control individual and organizational behavior and contains provisions pertinent to the interrogation process in police stations.
Abstract
When a suspect is brought into the police station, police officers have to obtain appropriate information and deal with the property and possessions of the arrested person. A search may be necessary and articles of clothing and personal possessions may have to be taken from the suspect, sometimes against his or her will. Police officers must then focus on the conditions and management of both incarceration and interrogation. The Police and Criminal Evidence Act is based on assumptions related to police discipline, supervision, and discretion. Police officers must consider the rights of prisoners, follow certain guidelines that codify what can be taken from a prisoner and how, and comply with restrictions on interrogation conditions and techniques. In addition, police officers cannot use oppressive interrogation tactics, must prepare accurate interview records and documentation, and attempt to maintain an atmosphere of professionalism during the interrogation process. 8 notes