***Powers of Entry and Search*** Flashcards
What 4 articles under the ECHR are affected by searching a premises?
Article 5 - Right to liberty and security
Article 9 - Freedom of thought, conscience and religion
Article 17 - Prohibition of abuse of rights
Article 1 - Protection of property
HAVVROT is the acronym used for remembering what is classed as a premises. What does it stand for?
H = Hovercraft
A = Aircraft
V = Vehicles
V = Vessels
R = Renewable Energy Installations
O = Offshore Rigs
T = Tents
What 3 pieces of legislation cover the power of entry and search WITHOUT WARRANT?
Section 17 PACE 1984
Section 18 PACE 1984
Section 32 PACE 1984
Under what conditions can you enter a premises under S17 PACE 1984?
- When arresting someone for an indictable offence
- When arresting for an offence under S1 Public Order Act
1936 - Recapturing a person unlawfully at large or someone who
you are actively pursuing - To preserve life + limb as well as prevent serious damage
to property
Note: Can also enter under S163 Road Traffic Act, Section 4 Public Order Act, Section 4 Road Traffic Act, Section 27 Transport + works Act 1972
What is the definition of Section 32 PACE 1984?
A constable may search any person when arrested at a place other than a police station if he has reasonable grounds to believe they may be concealing anything which could be a danger to himself or others, an implement to aid his escape or evidence relating to an offence
What three things can you ask someone to remove as part of a search in public?
J = Jackets
O = Outer Garments
G = Gloves
What is the definition of Section 32(2)(b) PACE 1984?
A constable may enter and search a premises in which a person was when arrested or immediately before being arrested for evidence relating to the offence for which he was arrested
What is the definition of Section 18 PACE 1984?
A constable may enter and search any premises occupied or controlled by a person under arrest for an indictable offence if he has reasonable grounds to suspect that there is on the premises evidence relating to that offence or another indictable offence which is similar or connected to that offence
What information is required on a warrant?
- The premises to be searched
- Details of materials sought
- The offences being investigated
- Name of suspect(s), where known
- The type of warrant
- Who is entitled to be on the premises during the search
What should you hand to the occupier before beginning a search warrant?
A copy of the warrant
Note: This should also be explained when practicable
How many calendar months is a warrant valid for?
3
What are the 5 distinct areas when searching a car?
- Interior
- Boot/Cargo area
- Engine Bay
- Exterior
- Underneath
What is an advantage of a systematic search?
It ensures you don’t miss any vital evidence
What is ‘connected property’?
Any property that could be in relation to an offence or be evidence of an offence
Define Section 19(2) PACE 1984
A constable who is lawfully on any premises may seize anything which is covered by a warrant, anything they have reasonable grounds for believing is evidence of an offence or anything that has been obtained in consequence of the commission of an offence