Stop and search
Police use stop and search powers to help keep Nottinghamshire safe. Using these powers can help deter, disrupt and detect criminal activity.
Members of the public accept that the force has to use stop and search powers, but the force recognises that it is important they are used lawfully, proportionately and people are treated with respect.
What is stop and search?
Section 1 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) gives a police officer the power to stop and search someone if they have reasonable grounds to suspect:
- The person is carrying items that are evidence of an offence, such as drugs, weapons or stolen property
- The person matches the description of a suspect
An officer does have the power to stop and search you without your consent, but this does not mean you are under arrest or have done anything wrong. It does not mean you will have a police record.
View the Force's draft Stop and Search policy - for public consultation.
-
Why do police use stop and search?
Stop and search is one of a number of powers that police use to detect and prevent crime.
-
What should I expect if I am stopped and searched?
A stop and search will be much quicker if you cooperate with police officers.
-
What should I expect after I am searched?
Officers are required to record searches at the time, unless there is exceptional circumstances.
