NCJ Number
136219
Date Published
1991
Length
196 pages
Annotation
This handbook of intended as a reference for British police officers in their implementation of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act of 1984.
Abstract
Section 1 of the Act provides constables with the power to stop and search persons and vehicles. Using a question-and-answer format, the handbook indicates the parameters for such an exercise of authority. The Act also provides for reasonable searches to obtain evidence of offenses, but it imposes restrictions to prevent "fishing expeditions." The handbook specifies the safeguards and procedures that are applicable to all search warrants. Part III of the Act redefines the meaning of "arrestable offence," creates the new classification of a "serious arrestable offense," abolishes most powers of arrest exercisable by a constable, provides a new general conditional power of arrest, outlines procedures for an arrest, and provides for persons to turn themselves into police voluntarily. The handbook discusses arrest procedures in detail. The handbook also presents the Act's provisions and respective police practices for detention, police interviews and interrogation, codes of practice, collection of evidence, the identification of persons, and the practice of tape recording. Subject index