Crime + the Law: Powers of the Police

Question 1

stop + search

Answer 1

• a police officer must reasonably suspect you to be in possession of an illegal or harmful item, they may search you and your clothes, anything you are carrying, or your vehicle
• for example, from April – December 2020 there were 392 stop and searches in North Ayrshire

Question 2

arrest

Answer 2

• the police need reasonable grounds to suspect you’re involved in a crime, they have the power to arrest anywhere, whether at work, at home or on the street
• for example, in Scotland more people are arrested for drug offenses than any other European country

Question 3

forced entry to premises

Answer 3

• if the police hear sounds of a serious disturbance or if they are pursuing someone who has committed a serious crime then they have the power to enter a premise
• for example, the police may be able to enter without a warrant if they suspect a murder, rape, robbery or theft by housebreaking has occurred