What is Stop and Search?
What is Stop and Search?
Stop and search is a police power in the UK that allows officers to stop a person and search them for certain items. This power is designed to help the police prevent and detect crime by allowing them to look for things like illegal drugs, weapons, stolen property, or items that could be used to commit a crime.
Why Do Police Use Stop and Search?
The main purpose of stop and search is to keep communities safe by removing illegal or dangerous items from the streets. Police officers may use this power if they have reasonable grounds to suspect that you are carrying something unlawful, such as drugs, a weapon, or stolen goods. In some situations, the police can also use stop and search powers without specific suspicion, such as during events where there is a risk of serious violence.
Legal Basis for Stop and Search
The authority for stop and search comes from UK law. The most commonly used law is Section 1 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984. This law sets out when and how police officers can stop and search someone in a public place. It requires that officers must have reasonable grounds for suspicion before carrying out a search, except in certain circumstances where special powers apply.
Common Reasons for Being Stopped and Searched
Police are most likely to stop and search someone if they have reasonable grounds to suspect that the person is:
- Carrying illegal drugs
- In possession of a weapon
- Holding stolen property
- Carrying items that could be used to commit a crime, such as burglary tools
Officers must explain why they are stopping you and what they are looking for. They should also provide their name and station, and explain your rights during the process.
How Stop and Search Differs from Other Police Powers
It’s important to understand that stop and search is not the same as being arrested. During a stop and search, you are not being detained for a crime, and you do not have to go to a police station unless the search leads to your arrest. Stop and search is also different from a search of your home or other premises, which requires different legal procedures.
If you’d like to learn more about the wider context of police powers and your rights when dealing with the police in the UK, further information is available to help you understand your protections.
When Can Police Stop and Search You?
When Can Police Stop and Search You?
Police in the UK have the power to stop and search you, but there are strict rules about when and how this can happen. Understanding these rules can help you recognise your rights and know what to expect during a stop and search.
Legal Conditions for a Lawful Stop and Search
For a stop and search to be lawful, police officers must usually have “reasonable grounds” to suspect that you are carrying certain items. These items typically include:
- Illegal drugs
- Weapons (such as knives)
- Stolen property
- Items that could be used to commit certain crimes, like burglary tools
The most common law governing stop and search is the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE). Under PACE, officers must follow a set procedure and can only search you if they have a genuine reason based on facts, information, or behaviour they have observed.
Reasonable Grounds for Suspicion
“Reasonable grounds” means the officer must genuinely believe you are carrying something illegal or prohibited, and this belief must be based on clear facts, not personal opinions or stereotypes. For example, seeing someone acting suspiciously near a recently burgled property, or matching the description of someone reported to be carrying a weapon, may give police reasonable grounds.
It is unlawful for police to base their suspicion solely on your age, race, religion, or how you are dressed.
Common Situations and Locations for Stop and Search
Stop and search powers are often used in public places such as:
- Town centres and shopping areas
- Public transport stations
- Streets known for drug use or theft
- Events or demonstrations
Police may also set up stop and search zones in certain areas for a limited time, especially if there is a heightened risk of violence or disorder.
Special Rules for Certain Items
There are some situations where police can stop and search you without needing reasonable grounds. For example:
- Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994: In areas where serious violence is anticipated, a senior officer can authorise searches for weapons without individual suspicion for a limited time.
- Section 44 of the Terrorism Act 2000: Allows searches in designated areas for items related to terrorism, although this power is now used much less frequently due to legal challenges.
For drugs, weapons, and stolen property, the officer must still have reasonable grounds unless one of these special authorisations is in place.
Relevant Legislation
The main laws covering stop and search include:
- Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) – general powers and procedures
- Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 – powers to search for controlled drugs
- Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 – powers to search for weapons in specific circumstances
If you are stopped, the officer must explain why you are being searched, what they are looking for, and under which law they are acting. If you are unsure, you have the right to ask for this information before the search begins.
Understanding these rules can help you protect your rights and ensure that police follow the correct procedures during a stop and search.
What Can Police Search For?
What Can Police Search For?
When police carry out a stop and search in the UK, they are only allowed to look for certain items, depending on the law under which the search is being conducted. Understanding what police can search for – and the limits of their powers – can help you know your rights and what to expect during a stop and search.
Items Police Are Allowed to Search For
Most stop and search powers are used to look for specific items that may be connected to crime. Common examples include:
- Weapons: Police can search you if they suspect you are carrying knives, firearms, or other offensive weapons.
- Drugs: Officers may search for illegal drugs if they have reasonable grounds to suspect you have them.
- Stolen Goods: If police believe you have property that has been stolen, they can search for these items.
- Evidence of Crime: In some cases, police can search for items that could be used in committing a crime, such as burglary tools.
The most commonly used stop and search power is under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE), Section 1. This law allows police to stop and search you if they have “reasonable grounds” to suspect you are carrying any of the items listed above.
Limits on What Police Can Search For
Police cannot use stop and search powers to look for just anything. Their search must be targeted and based on specific laws:
- No Fishing Expeditions: Officers are not allowed to search you without a clear reason or to see “what they might find.” They must explain what they are looking for and why they suspect you might have it.
- Specific Powers: Different laws give police different powers. For example, Section 1 of PACE is suspicion-based, meaning police must have reasonable grounds for the search. There are other powers, such as those used during public events or under anti-terrorism laws, but each has its own rules and limitations.
For more detail about the types of items police can search for and the legal basis for searches, see the Section 1 PACE (suspicion-based search) factsheet – StopWatch.
Differences in Search Powers
The situation or legislation under which you are searched affects what police are allowed to look for:
- Section 1 PACE: Used most often, requires reasonable suspicion and is limited to weapons, drugs, stolen property, or items linked to certain crimes.
- Section 60 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994: Allows searches for weapons in a specific area for a limited time, even without individual suspicion, usually when serious violence is anticipated.
- Misuse of Drugs Act 1971: Used when police suspect someone has illegal drugs.
Each power has its own criteria, and officers should tell you under which law they are searching you, as well as what they are looking for.
What Happens If Illegal Items Are Found?
If police find illegal items during a lawful stop and search – such as drugs, weapons, or stolen goods – they can seize the items and may arrest you. The items can be used as evidence in any further investigation or prosecution. If the search was not carried out according to the law, you may be able to challenge the search or make a complaint.
If you believe the stop and search was not conducted properly, or the police did not follow the correct procedures, you have the right to challenge the search. For more information about your rights and what to do if you think a search was unlawful, refer to the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE), Section 1 factsheet.
Knowing what police can and cannot search for helps protect your rights. If you want to learn more about when police can stop and search you, what to expect during the process, or how to challenge an unlawful search, explore the other sections of this guide.
How Does a Stop and Search Happen?
When the police carry out a stop and search in the UK, there are clear steps they must follow to ensure your rights are respected. Here’s what you can expect during the process, and what you should do if you have concerns.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Stop and Search
- The Stop
A police officer may ask you to stop if they suspect you are carrying illegal items, such as drugs, weapons, stolen goods, or something that could be used to commit a crime. The most common legal basis for stop and search is Section 1 of PACE, which requires the officer to have "reasonable grounds" for their suspicion. - Before the Search: What Police Must Tell You
Before searching you, the officer must clearly explain: - Their name and police station
- The legal power they are using (for most searches, this is Section 1 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 – PACE)
- What they expect to find (for example, drugs or weapons)
- The reason for the search (why they suspect you)
- That you have the right to a record of the search
If you do not understand any of this information, politely ask the officer to repeat or clarify their reasons. You have the right to know why you are being searched.
How the Search Is Conducted
The search should be carried out with respect and dignity. The officer may ask you to remove your coat, jacket, or gloves in public, but a more thorough search (such as removal of other clothing) must be done out of public view and by an officer of the same sex. Police can search:
- Your outer clothing
- Anything you are carrying, such as bags or backpacks
- Your vehicle, if you are in or near it (learn more about vehicle seizure during stop and search if your car is searched and taken by police)
If the police find anything they believe is illegal or evidence of a crime, they may take it from you for further investigation. For more details, see our guide on seizure of belongings.
Your Rights During the Search
- You have the right to be present throughout the search.
- The officer should treat you with courtesy and avoid unnecessary force.
- You should be searched by an officer of the same sex if you are asked to remove more than your outer clothing.
- You have the right to a written record of the search at the time, or within three months if you request it later.
If You Don’t Understand or Feel Your Rights Are Not Respected
If you are unsure about the reason for the search or believe your rights are not being followed:
- Politely ask the officer to explain the legal power they are using and their reasons.
- Make a note of the officer’s name and badge number.
- Request a written record of the search.
If you feel you have been treated unfairly or the search was unlawful, you can make a complaint to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which oversees police behaviour and investigates complaints.
For more detailed information on the legal framework and your protections during a stop and search, see the Section 1 of PACE factsheet.
Understanding the correct procedure helps you assert your rights and ensures police are held accountable for their actions during a stop and search.
Your Rights During a Stop and Search
During a stop and search, you have important rights that protect your dignity and ensure the process is carried out lawfully. Understanding these rights can help you feel more confident and informed if you are ever stopped by the police.
Right to Be Treated with Respect
Police officers must treat you fairly, politely, and without discrimination, regardless of your race, gender, age, or background. The law requires officers to follow a professional code of conduct and avoid any form of harassment or prejudice during a stop and search. If you feel you have been treated unfairly, you have the right to make a complaint.
Right to Know the Officer’s Details
You are entitled to know the name and badge number of the officer carrying out the search, as well as the police station they are attached to. The officer must also explain why you are being searched, what they are looking for, and the legal grounds for the search. In most cases, these powers come from Section 1 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, which outlines when and how police can stop and search individuals.
Right to Receive a Written Record
After the search, you should be given a written record or receipt detailing the reason for the search, the outcome, and the officer’s details. If it’s not possible to provide this on the spot, you can request a copy at the police station within 12 months. Keeping this record can be useful if you wish to challenge the search later.
Right to Have a Witness Present
If you feel more comfortable, you can ask for a friend, family member, or bystander to witness the search. While the police are not required to wait for a witness to arrive, you are allowed to have someone present if they are nearby and it does not delay the process. Having a witness can help ensure the search is conducted properly and provides an extra layer of accountability.
Right to Refuse Certain Types of Searches
Most stop and searches involve checking your outer clothing, pockets, or belongings. However, more intrusive searches – such as removing more than your outer coat, jacket, or gloves, or any intimate search – require special conditions. Intimate searches must be carried out by a qualified medical professional and only in specific circumstances, usually with your consent or a court order. You have the right to refuse an intimate search unless these conditions are met.
Right to an Interpreter
If English is not your first language and you do not understand what is happening, you can ask for an interpreter. The police should make reasonable efforts to help you understand your rights and the reason for the search, ensuring you are not disadvantaged by a language barrier.
Knowing your rights during a stop and search can also be helpful in other situations, such as when dealing with police disclosure to family or understanding your rights during police visits to your home. If you believe your rights have been breached during a stop and search, it is important to gather as much information as possible – such as your written record and witness accounts – so that you can make a formal complaint or seek legal advice.
What to Do If You Are Stopped and Searched
When you are stopped and searched by the police in the UK, it’s important to know your rights and how to protect yourself. Here’s what you should do if you find yourself in this situation:
Stay Calm and Polite
First and foremost, remain calm and polite throughout the interaction. Getting angry or confrontational can escalate the situation and may lead to further action by the police. Remember, you have the right to ask questions and seek clarification, but always do so respectfully.
Ask for the Reason
You are entitled to know why you are being stopped and searched. The officer must explain the reason for the search, what they are looking for, and under which law they are conducting the search. For most searches, this will be under Section 1 of PACE, which requires the officer to have reasonable grounds to suspect you are carrying illegal items such as drugs, weapons, or stolen goods. If you are unsure about the grounds for the search, politely ask the officer to clarify.
Request a Written Record
After the search, you have the right to receive a written record or a receipt. This document should include details of the search, the officer’s name and badge number, the reason for the search, and what was found (if anything). If you do not receive a record at the time, you can request one from the police station within 12 months. Having this record is important if you later need to challenge the search or seek legal advice.
Do Not Physically Resist
Even if you believe the search is unjustified, do not physically resist or try to walk away. Resisting a search can lead to your arrest or additional charges, such as obstructing a police officer. Instead, calmly state if you do not consent and make a mental note of what is happening.
Take Note of Officer Details and Witnesses
If possible, write down or remember the names, badge numbers, and descriptions of the officers involved. Also note the time, location, and any witnesses present. If you feel the search was not carried out properly, these details can help you make a complaint or seek legal support later.
Know When to Seek Legal Advice
If you feel your rights were violated, or if you are arrested or asked to attend police interviews after the search, it is important to seek legal advice. A solicitor can help you understand your options and guide you through the process. Keep the written record of the search and any notes you made, as these may be important for your case.
For further practical guidance on your rights and what to expect during a stop and search, you can refer to the Section 1 PACE (suspicion-based search) factsheet – StopWatch. This resource explains the legal basis for searches and what officers must do during the process.
Knowing your rights and following these steps can help protect you during a stop and search and ensure you are prepared if you need to challenge the police’s actions or seek further support.
When is a Stop and Search Unlawful?
A stop and search is considered unlawful if the police do not follow strict legal rules designed to protect your rights. Understanding when a stop and search crosses the line into illegality can help you know what to do next.
Common Reasons a Stop and Search May Be Unlawful
1. Lack of Reasonable Grounds
In most cases, police must have “reasonable grounds” to suspect you are carrying illegal drugs, a weapon, stolen property, or something that could be used to commit a crime. If an officer cannot clearly explain these grounds, or if they base the search on vague reasons like your appearance, race, or location alone, the search may be unlawful. For example, the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) sets out that searches must not be based on personal characteristics or generalisations.
2. Failure to Follow Proper Procedure
Police must follow certain procedures during a stop and search. They must identify themselves, explain the reason for the search, what they are looking for, and under which legal power they are acting. You should also be given a record of the search or told how to get one. If officers skip any of these steps, the search may not be legal.
3. Discrimination or Harassment
It is illegal for police to stop and search you because of your race, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, or any other protected characteristic. If you feel you were singled out or treated unfairly during the process, this could be discrimination. Harassment, intimidation, or use of excessive force during a stop and search is also unlawful.
What Happens If a Stop and Search Is Unlawful?
If the police carry out a stop and search unlawfully, any evidence they find may not be allowed in court. The officers involved could face disciplinary action, and you have the right to challenge their actions.
You can start by making a police complaint if you believe your rights were breached. If you think the officers’ behaviour amounted to misconduct, read our guidance on reporting police misconduct for the next steps.
For serious concerns, you can also contact the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which oversees complaints and investigations into police conduct in England and Wales.
Knowing your rights helps you protect yourself and hold the police accountable if they act outside the law. If you have experienced an unlawful stop and search, you are not alone – there are clear processes in place to help you seek justice.
How to Challenge a Stop and Search
If you believe you were stopped and searched unfairly or unlawfully, it’s important to know your options for challenging the police’s actions. Here’s what you can do:
1. Gather and Keep Evidence
Start by writing down everything you remember about the stop and search as soon as possible. Include details such as:
- The date, time, and location of the search
- The names or badge numbers of the officers involved (if known)
- What was said and done during the stop
- Whether you were given a written record of the search
If there were any witnesses, ask them for their account and contact details. If you have any video or audio recordings (for example, from your own phone or from nearby CCTV), keep these safe. Accurate records will help support your case if you decide to make a complaint or seek legal advice.
2. Understand Your Rights
Police must follow specific rules during a stop and search. For example, under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE), officers must have reasonable grounds to suspect you are carrying illegal items (unless specific powers apply, such as in certain public order situations). They should also explain why you’re being searched, what they’re looking for, and provide their name and station.
If you think these rules were not followed, you may have grounds to challenge the search.
3. Make a Formal Complaint
You have the right to complain if you feel the police acted improperly. This could include situations where you believe you were stopped without reasonable grounds, treated unfairly, or not given a proper explanation. Learn more about making a police complaint, including how to start the process and what information you’ll need.
Complaints can be made directly to the police force involved, either online, by post, or in person at a police station. Be clear and provide as much detail and evidence as possible.
4. Get Support from Independent Bodies
If you are not satisfied with the response to your complaint, you can ask an independent organisation to review your case. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) oversees complaints about police forces in England and Wales. The IOPC is separate from the police and investigates the most serious complaints, including those involving discrimination or abuse of power.
5. Challenge the Outcome of Your Complaint
If your complaint is not upheld or you disagree with the outcome, you have the right to take it further. For more information on this process, see our guide to challenging a police complaint, which explains your options and what steps to take next.
6. Seek Legal Advice and Consider Compensation
If you suffered harm or loss because of an unlawful stop and search, you may be entitled to compensation. This could cover things like damage to property, injury, or distress. Contact a solicitor who specialises in civil liberties or police actions to discuss your situation and possible claims.
Legal professionals can also advise you on your rights, help you gather evidence, and represent you if your case goes to court.
Challenging a stop and search can help hold the police accountable and protect your rights. Always keep detailed records and seek advice if you’re unsure about any part of the process. For more information about complaints and your legal protections, visit the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Related Police Powers and Procedures
When discussing stop and search, it’s helpful to understand how this power fits within the wider set of police powers and procedures in the UK. Stop and search is just one way police can investigate crime and maintain public safety, but there are other powers you should be aware of.
How Stop and Search Differs from Premises Searches
Stop and search powers allow police to search individuals or vehicles in public places if they have reasonable grounds to suspect illegal items, such as drugs or weapons. This is different from police powers to search your home or other premises. Searching a property usually requires a warrant from a court, but there are some situations where police can enter without one, such as when they’re pursuing a suspect or responding to an emergency.
For a detailed look at the rules and procedures for searching homes or businesses – including when warrants are needed and what your rights are – see our guide to search and entry of premises.
Police Entry and Search of Premises
Police may enter and search premises with a warrant issued by a magistrate or judge, often as part of a criminal investigation. However, there are circumstances when police can enter without a warrant, such as to prevent serious harm, make an arrest, or protect life and property. The legal basis for these powers is set out in laws like the Section 1 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, which outlines when and how searches can be carried out.
If you want to understand more about why police might come to your home and what your rights are during a visit, read our page on police home visits.
Stop and Search within Police Investigations
Stop and search is often used at the early stages of a police investigation, especially when officers suspect someone is carrying illegal items or evidence of a crime. However, if police find something during a stop and search, it could lead to further action – such as arrest or a search of your property. Knowing your rights at each stage is important, as the rules and protections may change depending on the situation.
If a stop and search leads to an arrest, you’ll have additional rights and protections. For more information about what happens if you’re arrested, what police can and cannot do, and your rights while in custody, see our section on arrest and detention by police.
Legal Framework and Further Guidance
All police powers, including stop and search and searches of premises, are governed by strict legal rules designed to protect your rights. The main law covering these procedures is the Section 1 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984, which you can read for the official wording and scope of these powers.
Understanding the differences between these powers – and knowing where to find more information – can help you protect your rights and respond confidently if you’re stopped, searched, or visited by police. Explore the related topics above for more detailed guidance on each area.
