NCJ Number
104648
Date Published
1986
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The British Police Federation views the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 as a confusing and impractical restriction on police efforts to counter 'street' crime, particularly through stop-and-search procedures.
Abstract
Many have claimed that the act extends police powers to an unconscionable limit that can only lead to police abuse of citizens' rights, particularly among racial minorities. The Police Federation, however, views the act as unduly restrictive upon officers who must act quickly and efficiently under stressful circumstances. Regarding stop-and-search procedures, for example, police are required to establish their identity, explain the object of the search and the grounds for making it, and inform the persons to be searched that they are entitled to copies of the record of the search. Further, police are required to limit their search to particular areas of clothing where the object in question is reasonably suspected to be located. An officer cannot require a person to remove clothing other than an outer coat, jacket, or gloves. A person cannot be made to remove a hat. Such detailed and restrictive requirements make stops and searches cumbersome, ineffective, and vulnerable to all sorts of technical legal challenges that can only paralyze or inhibit effective police practices. Rather than requiring police to comply with unduly restrictive contacts with the public, the public should be educated about the goals, benefits, and techniques of effective policing designed to enhance public order and safety. 10 notes.