Stop and Search / Account
Why do the police stop and search people?
The police can stop and search people to detect certain types of crime to help make our neighbourhoods safer. The successful use of stop and search means there are fewer victims of crime and more crimes are detected.
Over 86 per cent of people we asked about stop and search said they thought it was an appropriate police power to use in their community and over a third wanted the police to use the power more often.
In the West Midlands, stop searches are only carried out where there are proper grounds to do so. You will not be stopped and searched just because of your age, colour, hairstyle, the way you dress, etc.
Why would an officer carry out a 'stop and search'?
If you are stopped by the police it does not necessarily mean you are doing anything wrong. You may fit the description of someone the officers are seeking in connection with a crime, or they may suspect you of carrying stolen goods, drugs or something you could use to commit a crime or an item that could be used as a weapon.
Before an officer searches they must tell you:
- their name
- which police station they work at
- what made them suspicious in the first place
- the aim of the search
- what they expect to find
- that you are entitled to a copy of the search record
If you are stopped and searched the officers will try to be sensitive, discreet and quick - they will do their best not to embarrass or delay you unnecessarily. If you are in a public place, the officer can only ask you to take off your coat or jacket or gloves.
If you are stopped:
- The search will take place on the street
- If the officer asks you to remove more than your coat and gloves, or anything you wear for religious reasons, they must take you somewhere out of public view
- You will be asked to turn out your pockets and show the officers the contents of your bag
- The officers can also search your vehicle, even if you aren’t present, but they must leave a notice to say what they’ve done
- if you’re carrying something illegal, such as a weapon, or the police believe you’ve committed a crime, you may be arrested
- if they don’t find anything, your details will be recorded for monitoring purposes, and you’ll be allowed to go
What information will you need to provide?
You don’t have to give your name, address or date of birth to the police if you’re stopped and searched unless you’re being reported for an offence.
However, you may be asked to describe your ethnic origin. It’s important that you give this information to the officer, as this is how we monitor stopping of ethnic minorities and encourage police accountability.
Can I complain about being stopped and searched?
You should not be stopped or searched just because of your age, race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, the way you dress or because you’ve committed a crime in the past.
If you believe you were stopped and searched unreasonably, or you weren’t treated fairly or with respect, you can complain to:
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