Strip and Body cavity searches Flashcards
Why are strip searches of arrestees entering police lockups not routinely justified?
Strip searches are not routinely justified to rely on custody searches for officer safety and to prevent introducing contraband.
What is the importance of custody searches (searches incident to arrest) in the field and at booking?
They are essential for officer safety, preventing contraband in detention facilities, and establishing reasonable suspicion.
How can the legality of a strip search be determined according to the Fourth Amendment?
The courts balance the necessity of the search against the extent of invasion of the arrestee’s personal rights.
What must be considered to ensure a strip search of an arrestee is justified and reasonable?
The search must be both justified by necessity and conducted in a manner that respects human dignity.
Under what circumstances can field strip searches of prisoners be conducted?
Field strip searches can be conducted under exigent circumstances with the approval of a supervisory officer.
What procedures should be adhered to for strip searches conducted in the field?
Strip searches in the field must be conducted systematically, in privacy, and with legal restrictions followed.
Why is officer training essential for conducting strip searches in the field?
Officer training ensures searches are conducted professionally and in compliance with legal and ethical standards.
What is the purpose of the strip and body cavity searches policy?
To provide guidelines for determining the legality of such searches.
When should a strip search be conducted according to the Lexington Police Department policy?
Only when exigent circumstances require such action.
Who has the final say in determining the need for a strip search?
A supervisor should make the final determination.
Under what conditions can a body cavity search be performed?
With explicit supervisory approval and a search warrant.
Who is authorized to perform a body cavity search?
An authorized physician or medically trained personnel.
What is the department’s stance on the use of strip and body cavity searches?
Recognizes the necessity under certain conditions while respecting individual privacy.
How is gender identity defined in the department’s policy?
As a person’s sense of being a man or a woman.
Define body cavity search according to the Lexington Police Department.
A search involving internal physical examination of body cavities.
What constitutes exigent circumstances for conducting a search without a warrant?
Emergency situations requiring immediate action to prevent harm or escape.
What defines gender expression in the context of the department’s policy?
External manifestation of one’s gender identity.
Who should perform a body cavity search based on a search warrant?
An authorized agency physician or other medically trained personnel at the physician’s direction.
Where should a body cavity search be conducted for safety reasons?
At a licensed medical facility, department’s detention facilities, or another authorized facility.
What should the authorized individual conducting a body cavity search do after the search?
File a report with the police department and ensure it is forwarded to the approving supervisor.
Under what circumstances is the use of physical force to search a suspect’s mouth allowed?
Only when a lawful arrest has been made, probable cause exists for hidden contraband, and either a search warrant is issued or exigent circumstances exist.
What action should be taken if an officer believes a suspect has swallowed contraband?
The officer should seek medical attention for the suspect as soon as reasonably possible.
What records should the Public Integrity Unit maintain?
A database record of all searches governed by the policy and prepare administrative reports based on the data.
What should officers do prior to conducting strip searches?
Video and audio record a 360-degree view of the location.
